Despite the darkness, I still see signs of hope in America
Summary
Eric Berger reflects on America's arc from bicentennial pride to present-day challenges, arguing that hope persists despite polarization and upheaval. He highlights progress in space exploration, science funding, and medical breakthroughs, and urges Americans to reclaim agency by becoming makers and active participants in democracy. The piece blends personal memory with a call for credible, evidence-based optimism.