Be a better American by remembering the power of one in 2017

Posted On: Sunday, 20 November 2016
Be a better American

What do you really think of the average American? That was the question posed in a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center. And here’s what Americans thought of other Americans based on those findings: We’re a patriotic bunch and we’re honest. However, those same people also said that Americans are pretty selfish.

In light of those findings, it’s a good idea to remember the power that one person with one idea can have in a community. You don’t necessarily have to go out and invest thousands of hours or money to make a difference.

Carlene Ashworth, past national president of the American Legion Auxiliary, the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization, had this to say about some examples that demonstrate the power of one:

  • It just takes one handshake and a smile to let an elderly veteran in a nursing home know that someone cares.
  • It takes just one knock on the door of a young mother whose husband is deployed and whose’ washing machine just quit working to know she has support.
  • It takes the power of just one person to round up the community and line the streets with waving flags to honor local soldiers being deployed or coming home.
  • It takes one spark to light a candle or start a forest fire.
  • It takes just one of you to revitalize the passion in yourself or someone else.

One thought, one word, one smile, one action, one idea can launch a transformation. Use your power as one individual to make a difference in someone’s life. Reach out and take action today.

ALA Mission
Statement

In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.