text: do you hate the united states?   no, of course not! for those of us who are american citizens, this is our inheritance. we have been born into an astonishing country, with astonishing values. and it is our job, as citizens, to help keep alive in whatever small way we can, because, like any inheritance, it can be squandered. and the only thing that will keep it intact is if we, who have been lucky enough to inherit it, try to keep faith with those who bequeathed it to us, and do our best to preserve and enhance it for those who come after us. i love america.