EDITOR’S NOTE: The following essay, written many years ago by Meeker resident Esme Sprod (b. 1921-d. 1996), was submitted to this office for publication. Her words are a compelling and poignant reminder of our shared American values and ideals including veneration of the Constitution, government facilities, national parks, public education, libraries, and more.
At what other time in history could our love for America be more fervently expressed than at the present? While tragic fears of war overshadow all Europe, we can more than ever appreciate the security of our great sanctuary, America. The pride of every citizen may well be established in a country whose momentous industrialism has such drastic results upon the entire world. Perfect fidelity in an efficient congress places the problem of formulating a neutrality law in their hands. Though at present this seems as if challenging the impossible, our Congress will no doubt enact an effective law beneficial to all.
Two great documents, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States, bestowed upon us rights and privileges desired by the inhabitants of every free nation. Vitally important is the great contrast between the self-government of the American people and the austere rule of the dictators under which many Europeans are forcibly placed.
Nor need one’s attention be directed entirely to the advantageous governmental facilities of America. It is a huge land, abounding with magnificent beauties, both natural and artificial. Its fertile soils yield many of the products demanded by American industrialism, thus aiding in the up-keep of the nation.
Nineteen tracts of land, set apart by Congress, provide national parks. In them only natural charms such as majestic mountains many crowned with ever-lasting snow, exist. Smaller parks have been established throughout the states and in the cities. Leisure time submits valuable and undefinably great pleasures for both children and adults when spent in our typically American summer camps and resorts.
Youthful Americans probably deal more with education and its tributaries than with any other one item. America is now more efficiently equipped to educate these masses of young people than ever before. Free public schools bring training within the reach of almost every person. Fine universities and colleges are extended to thousands who wish to continue in the intellectual field. Every profession is dealt with and may be taken up by anyone who so desire, with unlimited possibilities in view.
What would America be without its libraries? This would be very difficult to imagine because they hold such a definite place in our lives. A well-educated citizenship makes for wiser government. Thus libraries have a powerful effect upon our government and livelihood. Recently measures have been proposed whereby libraries will be extended to rural districts. Great American movies have already taken their place along with libraries in educational importance.
America is a great land of freedom, endowed with famous artists, writers, actors, musicians, containing churches of every denomination, wonderful hospitals, libraries and schools. Nor are the Americans a selfish people looking only to their interests. Their concerns are always in accord with others, an example of which may be easily seen in the recent Jewish situation.
May America and its people always enjoy its present peaceful security!
–Esme Sprod
Meeker, Colorado
