What makes a country great?

by Steve Schmidt, Darby

A country that enjoys economic prosperity has the means to do great things.  However, it is not the prosperity that makes a country great, it is what a country does with that prosperity that can make a country great.

Many years ago, a close friend and I debated about which country was the greatest. My friend believed strongly that America was the greatest country. I said that I was not sure since I was not knowledgeable about all the countries on earth. I did acknowledge that America is the richest country on earth.

But does being rich determine greatness and should America aspire to be rich, or richer, or should we seek other attributes? Many factors besides wealth are far more likely to determine the greatness of any country.

A great country:

• Upholds justice, equality, and human rights for all its citizens

• Pursues a thriving and stable economy as well as fair wealth distribution

• Promotes integrity, honesty, and accountability in governance

• Has leaders who serve the people rather than their own interests

• Fosters respect for diversity, tolerance, and inclusion of all ethnic, religious, and cultural groups

Invests in education, research, and innovation

Champions peace, humanitarian aid, and environmental sustainability

• Treats its global partners fairly and equitably

• Provides healthcare and support for its citizens

• Preserves heritage, arts, and traditions

• Is forward thinking and able to overcome crises with wisdom and unity

• Seeks and obtains input from its citizens and responds via foundational democracy

• Provides for a sustainable future for the next generations of citizens

A nation is truly great when its people are healthy, educated, and free to pursue happiness. When citizens feel valued, heard, and represented, the country thrives. Let’s aspire as a country to be the greatest contributor to a better world and one that seeks to lift all people up. In so doing, America can be the greatest country.