
I went to the Nats game on Saturday night and when I heard that national anthem just before the game started, I got a little shiver. I know we have enormous, disgusting, hideous problems in this country. There are still too many people struggling and falling through the cracks in our economy and in our society. There is too much hate, too much intolerance, and too much violence. And still, I believe in this country because I know we can and will do better.
I got to Nats Stadium by taking a very long walk from my apartment right through the center of Capitol Hill. Every time I see that beautiful dome and the lawn that expands down the Washington Monument, I can’t help but fall in love with this city and this country again. America, you’ve come a long way in your 240 year history, and you’ve got a long way to go. Today, I celebrate your journey and promise to do my part to help you become all that you are capable of being for everyone who calls you home.