Road biking is a way for me to clear my mind and have a chance to see things that I’d normally miss if riding in a car. I thought that today would be a glorious day to ride but that changed after a few minutes. As I passed by a house in Bedford, I saw an American flag hanging upside down from the porch. I couldn’t get that image out of my head for the remainder of my ride. My heart ached. I was confused and shocked.

I started thinking about what I believe in as an American and realized that while the COVID pandemic rages on, my beliefs have crystalized.

I believe:

that the United States is an amazing country.

in freedom and the personal responsibility that it brings.

in supporting the police.

that we share core values and are more alike than different.

in “do unto others as you would have others do unto you”.

that as a society, we need to solve problems in a non-partisan, civil way.

in science and the facts that are supported by science.

that there have been too many unnecessary deaths due to our response to COVID.

Most importantly, I believe we need to do everything in our power to keep ourselves, the people we love and even perfect strangers safe and healthy.

And yes, that means getting vaccinated and wearing a mask when necessary.

Please think about it – now’s the time to make some changes – it may save your life.