AT:  For me, the measuring stick is how we treat other people...do we show respect, empathy, compassion and understanding? Do we treat them fairly and with dignity?  This applies institutionally, systemically, and personally in our face-to-face and, yes, our internet interactions on site such as this one. 

 Charles and eric both raise legitimate points regarding the threats to Americans.  Are there major issues in our inner cities? Yes, indeed.  Are there major issues in "white rural america" with, for example, the opiod abuse epidemic? Yes, indeed.  Are there major issues relating to police/minorities relations? Yes, indeed.  Do we have income disparity, with 70% of Americans working in service industry jobs at the brink of poverty? Yes, indeed.  Do we have hundreds of thousands of homeless? Yes, indeed.  Do we have tens (or hundreds) of thousands of mentally ill Americans who are not receiving the needed care? Yes, indeed. (cont)