ENLIGHTEND INDIVIDUALISM and EXCEPTIONALISM

“One of the greatest satisfactions one can ever have comes from the knowledge that he can do some one thing superlatively well”

Hortense Odlum, businesswoman

We have a capitalist system in our country that depends on Individualism and Exceptionalism. Individualism is being a strong and productive person. Exceptionalism is being above average and having some level of success.  These two words can have negative connotations – self-centered, selfish, uncaring, and elitist.

We in America have adopted an enlightened form of individualism and exceptionalism. Individualism is a strong and capable person who has enough margins in their life to care for others. Only the strong can help the weak, can pass on their knowledge, can share their successful life experiences with those who have lost their way, and have the money to give to charity. Every day millions of hours are given to charities and caring for others and every day millions of dollars are also given to charities. We are a generous people.

Ben Carson was a black child who grew up in the Detroit ghetto but he also

had a mother that taught him to work hard and set high goals. As an adult he became a world famous neuro-surgeon who with his gifted hands made thousands of patients’ lives better. My father, who was an engineer, discovered at age 50 that he had artistic talent. He created about 100 paintings. Some he sold, many he gave away and the remainder were kept in the family to enjoy and treasure. His beautiful paintings enriched the lives of many.

Our capitalist culture allows us the freedom to choose whatever career path best suits us. This freedom generates the optimum economic productivity that gives us the highest standard of living the world has ever known. Americans have a unique quality “to make things happened” and “to get thing done right”.

We should be grateful that we live in a country that has a capitalist system that fosters Individualism and Exceptionalism. We need to choose our career path carefully, strive for excellence, have some fun, and give generously to help others. This is what has made America the envy of the world.