Robert Dilenschneider
Robert Dilenschneider

As we make our preparations to celebrate Independence Day in an America that is, in most places, returning to normal, let us pause for a moment to be thankful for those who forged the path to our nation’s independence.

Let us remember too that our nation has undergone many dramatic changes since the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and that we have overcome many great challenges, both at home and abroad, during those 245 years. Now we face a new challenge to finish the eradication of COVID-19, to restore our economy and to help those who have been most afflicted by the pandemic and the lockdown.

We can and will deal with these problems, but we will need cool heads, strong and objective leadership, and smart ideas to shape our future. As these messages have repeated so many times in the past, vague generalities are of no use, mob rule is completely unacceptable, and violence is unthinkable.

We need to depend on our institutions to do the right thing. This is a moment to have confidence in the leadership around us, as well as a time to challenge our leaders to bring us together and to bring out our best. When Americans are united in their determination to move forward, no one can beat them.

Most important, we are still a nation that believes in making the world a better place. That is something we should never lose sight of, for as long as the best qualities in our national character remain strong, America will prevail.

My best wishes for a safe and happy Fourth of July for you and all your loved ones.

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Robert L. Dilenschneider is the Founder and CEO of The Dilenschneider Group, an international communications firm that provides strategic advice and counsel to Fortune 500 companies and leading families and individuals in fields ranging from mergers and acquisitions, to crisis communications, to marketing, government affairs and foreign media.