By Robert A. Scott

In these times of divisive politics, it is important to think about who we are, our relations to others, and the purpose of our lives. The original, anonymous 15^th Century allegorical play represents an accounting of the life of Everyman, who represents all humankind, upon his death.

 

I am a patriot,

who loves my nation and

the ideals on which it stands.

 

I am an American

who believes that my country

has grown and developed through

successive waves of immigrants who

subscribe to our common values.

 

I am a citizen

who strives to ensure

the continued vitality of the Bill of Rights

and the Constitution.

 

I am a veteran, and the son of a veteran,

who knows that heroic figures are those who

sacrifice for the common good.

 

I am a student of history and politics

who knows the value of diplomacy

and the role of the military in ensuring our

nation’s security.

 

I am an educator

who teaches critical thinking

and independence of thought.

 

I am a leader

who believes that, in all things,

truth matters, integrity counts.

 

I am a father and grandfather

who wants my family, and your family,

and everyone’s family, to enjoy

the fruits of democracy, the responsibilities

of freedom, and the privileges of citizenship.

 

I am an advocate of informed

and civil debate, and abhor how

divisive politics has become.

 

I am a religious person

who believes in tolerance

and knows that you can

be right without my

being wrong.

 

I am a mourner

who grieves for all those

who have died in war and in poverty.

I am a father, a friend, a professional, a citizen.

I am your neighbor.

I am “everyman.”

And in the end, we are one.

 

By Robert A. Scott,

President Emeritus, Adelphi University