E Pluribus Unum.  Out of many, we are one.  This was the de facto motto of the United States of America when we formed over two centuries ago.  In many ways, it defines us as a nation.  On this Independence Day, when our news is full of divisive politics at home and abroad, I am reminded of how important it is to remember who we are, our history, and where we came from.  Perhaps our founders derived this concept from Cicero who said, "When each person loves the other as much as himself, it makes one out of many.” 

Tribalism is an innate part of being human – defining us and them.  We want to belong and define our enemies.  But what has always made America great is our ability to bring vastly diverse groups of people together in our love of freedom and opportunity for all. 

Tolerance is the ability to see humanity in another person’s eyes – even if that person is different from us.  This July 4^th, as Americans, let us celebrate our unity from diversity.  Let us look in each other’s eyes and see humanity despite our differences.  Happy Birthday America!