Americans first

America has always opened its arms to refugees fleeing their countries because of violence, persecution or war, while boasting that our values compel us to do this.

It’s amazing that these people rose up against their government, but chose to flee when the odds were against them. During the Civil War, millions died to preserve our nation, but none sought refuge in another country. No one thought life would be better than it was in America.

This nation faces a perilous decision: Admit thousands of refugees or continue to fail to address the needs of veterans, poor minorities living in crime-infested neighborhoods, crumbling infrastructures, a struggling middle-class, high unemployment and elections controlled by gerrymandering.

If we continue to neglect these issues, we may face a civil crisis not yet experienced.

Unfortunately, too many Americans with insurmountable problems have nowhere to flee, while our government caters to special interests and the rich.

No government shall forever stand if it fails to hear its people’s cries.

This story was originally published December 30, 2015 at 4:39 PM with the headline "Americans first."