Robert Dilenschneider

As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends, take a deep breath and a moment to be thankful for those who forged the path to our nation’s independence.

Not a moment passes these days, it seems, without some major problem appearing in our lives.   

Let us always remember, though, that America has undergone many dramatic changes since the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and we have weathered many storms during those 244 years. Now we are being challenged yet again to deal simultaneously with a health crisis, an economic crisis and a social justice crisis. And at the same time we face a multitude of threats and challenges from abroad.   

We will deal with these problems, but we will need cool heads, strong leadership, determination, focus and smart ideas to shape our future. Mob rule and vague generalities won't work. And violence is completely unacceptable. 

We need to depend on our institutions to do the right thing. This is a moment to have confidence in the leadership around us.   

We are still a nation that believes in striving for the best and making the world a better place. That is something we should never lose sight of, for as long as the best qualities in our national character remain strong, America will prevail.

A safe and happy Fourth of July to you and your loved ones.

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Robert L. Dilenschneider is founder and chairman of The Dilenschneider Group, a global public relations and communications consulting firm headquartered in New York City. The former CEO of Hill and Knowlton, Inc., he is also author of more than a dozen books, including the best-selling “Power and Influence.”