'Enlightened'

What accounts for America’s exceptionalism? What novel institutions and culture in our advanced civilization differ from the European model? Why have we inspired envy/disdain from our flat world neighbors? Perhaps it is our peculiar version of ‘enlightenment.’ America’s novel form of enlightenment has been freedom and equality under the rule of law which guarantees each person the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Sure we pursued our goals with fits and starts, but we have gradually corrected our mistakes and not allowed our pursuit to become derailed as has happened in many countries around the globe. Enlightenment occurred in the course of history as civilizations advanced, but America from its inception rejected the notion of ‘dharma’ which in India accounts for a caste system determined by birth which automatically limits a person’s social position and career. Europe transitioned its version of the ‘enlightenment’ during the Renaissance. China moved through its own Meiji (enlightened) period too. The Buddha himself, the ‘enlightened’ one, exemplifies the correct path to pursue in life. However, with the advent of the ‘Dark Knight,’ Barack Obama, the Democrat candidate for President of these United States, our lights could blink out. Obama preaches dismal determinism, anti-entrepreneurial socialism, white guilt and black racism aimed to divide, not unite our country. Under his aegis, change would not be for the better. His version of America contrasts starkly with the elitist life that he has lived. His enlightened vision equates with darkness and gives new meaning to the word exceptionalism. Voter beware!