In July of 1976, I was 15 years old—an age when I was convinced I knew just about everything. Our nation was celebrating the United States Bicentennial, marking 200 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The excitement was everywhere. Red, white, and blue decorated neighborhoods, patriotic music filled the air, and fireworks seemed brighter than ever. It was a season of celebrating America’s history while looking ahead with hope and anticipation.

Personally, I was on the brink of my own independence. With a learner’s permit tucked safely in my wallet, I couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel and experience the freedom that came with driving. Life was full of possibilities, and the future seemed wide open.

Gerald Ford was president, and our country was still finding its footing after the turmoil of Watergate. Trust in government had been shaken, yet there remained a quiet confidence that America could heal and move forward together. If you’re old enough, you probably remember exactly where you were when Richard Nixon resigned. Like the moon landing or the events of September 11 years later, it became one of those defining moments woven into our nation’s collective memory.

Now fast forward to 2026—and I’ll let you do the math on my age. Once again, America is preparing for a historic milestone: America’s 250th birthday, officially known as the United States Semiquincentennial. Across the country, communities are planning events to commemorate our nation’s founding and celebrate 250 years of American history.

Yet this anniversary feels remarkably different from the Bicentennial I remember as a teenager.

Instead of a shared sense of celebration, I often sense a deep weariness. The political and cultural divisions in our country seem impossible to ignore. Too often, conversations become competitions to prove who is right rather than opportunities to seek understanding. If I am right, then you must be wrong. There seems to be very little room left for saying, “We may see this differently, but I’d like to
understand your perspective.”

Perhaps what saddens me most is that we’ve lost much of our willingness to truly listen. While someone else is speaking, we’re often busy rehearsing our response, eager to defend our position or score the next point. We hear words, but we don’t always hear hearts. Curiosity has too often been replaced by criticism; and compromise has somehow become synonymous with weakness instead of wisdom.

Looking back to that summer of 1976, I realize America wasn’t perfect then, either. We faced disagreements, uncertainty, and wounds that needed healing. But I also remember a spirit of optimism—a belief that despite our differences, we shared a common future and a common responsibility to care for one another.

As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, my hope isn’t that we’ll all think alike. That has never been the American story. Diversity of thought has always been part of our democracy. My hope is that we rediscover the art of civil discourse—listening with empathy, disagreeing with respect, and remembering that the person across the table is not our enemy.

Perhaps the greatest way we can honor the generations who built this nation is not simply by waving a flag, attending a parade, or watching fireworks on the Fourth of July. Perhaps it is by becoming better neighbors, more thoughtful citizens, and people who choose grace over outrage, understanding over assumption, and unity over division.

After all, a nation’s greatest strength has never been found in unanimous opinions. It has always been found in people willing to stand together—even when they stand on different sides of an issue.

Something to contemplate over a hot—or iced—café Americano.

Café Americano

A simple classic that reminds us some of life’s greatest comforts don’t need to be complicated.

Serves: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Brew two fresh shots of espresso.
  2. Pour the hot water into a warmed coffee mug.
  3. Slowly add the espresso over the hot water to preserve the rich crema.
  4. Enjoy as is, or add a splash of cream and sweetener if desired.

Unconditionally Her Tip

For a smoother, less bitter Americano, always pour the espresso into the hot water, not the other way around. This helps preserve the crema and creates a richer, more balanced cup.

Pair It With

Fresh berries, buttery croissants, avocado toast, or quiet moments on the porch as the sun rises.

Why It’s Called an Americano

Legend has it that during World War II, American soldiers stationed in Italy found traditional Italian espresso too strong for their taste. They began adding hot water to espresso to create a coffee more like the drip coffee they enjoyed back home. Italians affectionately called it a Caffè Americano, or “American coffee,” and the name has remained ever since.

Today, the Americano is loved around the world for its bold espresso flavor with the smoothness of a longer cup of coffee.

“Like many of life’s best moments, an Americano reminds us that strength and gentleness can exist in the very same cup.”