“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union…”
So reads the Preamble to the Constitution, which frames the purpose of one of our nation’s fundamental documents.
The authors didn’t necessarily mean the plan was flawless. We’re not constitutional scholars, but a quick search will reveal that the word “perfect”—at that time, used like that—probably meant something more like “complete,” “confident,” or “whole.”
Today, the Fourth of July still commemorates something like this, the idea of coming together. In many communities, the young and young at heart gather outside to play with sparklers or in sprinklers. We might remember eating a slightly burnt hotdog a parent made us or huddling together to watch fireworks light up the horizon.
Scenes like this may very well drum up feelings of unity. While some may feel this same sense of pride for the ideals of this country all year round, some may be more apprehensive. We know that at the mere mention of politics, tensions can start to build. Sometimes it can feel as if, anywhere we turn, we’re being asked to choose sides and being pitted against each other.
How can we find common ground in such a divided union?
Each party, whether we’re talking political party or neighborhood block party, is made up of the same thing: people. Each party is made up of parents and children, students and teachers, doctors and delivery drivers. You get the idea. We are people who are probably after similar things. Aren’t most of us seeking to live happy, fulfilled lives? Wouldn’t most of us prefer a safe and stable environment to thrive in?
We all want a chance at a bright future.
When there is political tension or big political change on the way, it’s not uncommon for clients to start wondering how to make their portfolios “politics-proof.” Anxiety is a normal response to change, but a look back at history can remind us that the outlook in this country is generally okay following each major political shift. Not “perfect” results or glorious returns—but generally okay.
The dust from elections and major events does eventually settle. And we keep at it. We are all here, hard at work, in the name of improving this grand experiment, together. The beautiful thing about democracy is that it is always evolving.
The words written by white-haired men almost 250 years ago described a world that has grown, evolved, and developed in ways they could never have foreseen. The Constitution may end with a period, but you better believe the story of this country is one we’re always writing. There is always going to be room for improvement, and we can do it together.
The markets will be closed for this Fourth of July, and we’ll be taking a little break along with many of our fellow Americans. We wish everyone the best. May we all be surrounded by good food, great company, and diverse experiences. Life is richer when we share what we have.
What in your life can we help you celebrate? Call or email if you would like to chat, anytime.
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