The concept of political unity or the view that political affiliation may have the capacity to one day join together to embody a single entity representing the views of all people has been debated for some time. This possibility has often been denoted as "unrealistic" due to the sound differences of our parties. However, perhaps we are observing such a possibility too literally. In other words, what if such unity simply applied to the joining together of the parties during times of mutual triumph or national terror?
If this were the case, our perception of political unity might seem more practical. In fact, we witnessed this form of resolute unity just sixteen years ago on September 11, 2001. The attacks of 9/11 represented an opportunity to acknowledge the extent of unparalleled unity our nation is capable of in times of need. Countless individuals of all parties, ethnicities, and genders raced to save as many lives as they could from New York City's World Trade Center. They did not stop to question whether the person they were saving was a member of the left or right wing. They did not discriminate against another's personal views. They acted instinctually according to natural law and upheld the value of life over political discord.
John F. Kennedy once said, "In a time of domestic crisis, men of goodwill and generosity should be able to unite regardless of party or politics." One may assume his words directly apply to examples similar to 9/11 such as then recent state of rehabilitation caused by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Hurricane Irma in Florida. Citizens gathered together to provide shelter and resources for hurricane victims. Others recruited boats and supplies to rescue stranded mothers and their infants, the elderly, children, pets, and loved ones. All of this was done with a blind-eye toward political affiliation because when it came down to it, politics were irrelevant to those affected by these natural disasters. A person's will for survival will forever be stronger than their desire to drive a point against their opposing party. While many continue to reject the Trump administration, thousands were quick to accept the food and clothing offered to them by President Trump and the First Lady during their visits to the shelters in Houston and Fort Myers.
The idea of political unity may have manifested from the philosophies of wishful thinkers centuries ago. Although such concepts appear to remain abstract today, the transitional use of unity during times of hardship continues to be practiced today.
