We left Vermont last Sunday morning in a fully packed car, two days after the movers carried out all the boxes and furniture, and arrived in our new home by noon on Thursday. Yes, a fast crossing, but with much ease I will add. No storms, no major road delays, plenty of decent motel accommodations, plus a fabulous payoff by a special neighborhood visitor. And just like that … Southern California is now home.

Crossing over the Mississippi always makes me consider what this waterway represents in our shared history. Transportation for most, a natural divide for all, but how can one not feel that gut wrenching horror of slavery as you pass by The Gateway Arch in St. Louis and over these muddy waters? We may have made strides in this country but there is so much more that needs to happen, as is evident in the accepted racial slurs coming primarily from one political party and their supporters across our screens and airways and into our homes. But, echoing the words of many, we are not going back. We are indeed going forward. This I do believe most Americans wish for and will be evident come November.

As we travel down RT 44 to 40 the earth goes flat and the heat is real.

Driving is an extraordinary reminder of the vastness of our nation, as well as its need for unity. I wonder how many people who are in positions of power actually “see” America? How many observe the ingenuity and work ethic of the working class? Their amazing strength and persistence to continue even in the face of despair. How many see the level of need that most American’s deserve and strive for yet never quite achieve? As they dip off their private jet to their controlled speaking engagement do they also see those who are marginalized, silenced, and not represented?

In my mind, driving through vast rural and even the outskirts of urban areas offers an immediate vantage into much of America’s challenges and triumphs, and absolutely worth more of a priority than letting corporations dictate policy. Here is where we might see each other, and demand our leaders do too.

All I know for sure is that people from coast to coast are awesome. Individuals holding doors open as you pass inside, strangers saying good morning as we each load our cars in the early light, service attendants wishing you safe voyage as grab an ice tea, and the hundreds of truckers careening along side of us observing the very best safety practices. It is possible that we are not made up of red and blue states or divided black, brown and white people when you look each other in the eye and wish each other well. But that is not an easy task in this election year especially with social media built on increasing strife for their engagement rates. Nothing like anger to keep you scrolling, right? But we each have the opportunity to talk civilly to each other, regardless of what the trolling disruptors want, and share our America with love and kindness.

Forget slogans and remember the blue of our flag, representing vigilance, perseverance, and justice. Let that be our rally call to each other these next few months. True Blue.