The collapse of the I-35W Bridge over the Mississippi River in the Twin Cities was a shocking wake-up call to citizens and politicians alike. We remember where we were when it happened, and just like most disasters natural and otherwise, it adds to our feelings of vulnerability and disillusion.

Vulnerability in that American-built was considered the best and enduring, and disillusion of our government’s promise to support the public welfare-a right that we took for granted and on this 4th of July, is somehow missing from our American landscape–like the Twin Towers and the Bridge. Although physical structures are visible when they collapse, there are other structures, albeit tenets of our society, that are collapsing and are not visible, but nonetheless felt. Our economy, home ownership, a decent living wage, a sound education, security not only safety, but employment, our infrastructure, our mobility and our ability to choose. All these are part of the American lifestyle and are no longer guaranteed to future generations.

This July 4th we, as Americans, are facing an uncertain future, a dramatic change in our lifestyle, living standards, and the way we do business. Maybe, it is fitting that this year we embark on an unchartered course much like our forefathers did in 1776 with the same queasiness, uneasy trepidation that they faced. This year will determine how we meet this challenge, as one historian put it whether we see ourselves as an empire–a crumbling one, or a democracy with a small “d.” Just like the new bridge being erected across the Old Mighty Mississippi, we have to look at a new American design, one developed by a hard reality of our place in the world and our current domestic status–a new design that will answer the promise of promoting the public welfare that was foremost in our founding fathers minds.

Click here to view →Slideshow of the Rebuilding of the I-35W Bridge

Photos Courtesy of Genelle Lamont©

Related Articles You'll Enjoy!

• Upcoming Events: Designer Home Goods At Bargain Prices
• When The Bough Breaks
• Better To Light This Candle, Than…
• A New Specialty: Simply Delicious American Meals
• Celebrate The Chinese New Year With This Freebie!
• Wednesday Steals: Hot Decorating Item
• Bargain Banter: Calling All Border Residents!
• Minnesotans Celebrate Independence Day at the Taste of Minnesota
• Part One: Take Home Some Native Pride for the Holidays
• Tip of the Week #20 Getting to the Bottom of Area Rugs

Tags: I-35 Bridge Update

Sign-Up for Daily E-Mail Gems from

(No Ratings Yet)  Loading ...