For a short while, everywhere you looked you saw "God Bless America." I'm not sure how, but depending on the way it was displayed, you could almost sense the intentions behind it. For some, it was a cry for help; for some, a prayer; for others, a slogan; and for a few, it was just one more politically correct thing to do. You could even detect this in the voices of people who said it. Some of the people I heard saying "God bless America" hadn't used the word God in years, except in conjunction with "damn it."
What does "God bless America" mean to you?
The only other secular acknowledge-ment about God occurs on our money: "IN GOD WE TRUST." Back in grade school (before talking about God was illegal), I was told that our forefathers placed that statement on our money as a commitment to trust in God. It was a reminder to trust in God instead of material possessions. Is that where our trust is now? Or do we place our trust in our own ability, our economy and our military?
For many in our profession, chiropractic is unique in its philosophical reference to God. We not only recognize the human body as a marvel of his creation, but also depend upon his creation of Innate Intelligence to heal and protect our bodies from disease. Chiropractors do not harbor the conceit that they do the healing. They acknowledge that by removing restrictions (subluxations) that we allow the wellness force is free to flow and provide the body with the fullest expression of health.
So what about our country? Are we so bold as to believe that we are responsible for our own greatness?
Our world has changed. The attacks of September 11, 2001 have stripped away our confidence. Like carefree teenagers who suddenly lose friends in a fatal automobile accident, we are faced with the realization that bad things not only happen to the rest of the world, but that they can happen to us.
The people of our great country seek healing and protection. This was made plain on September 16, when our churches had overflowing attendance. My own church saw a 50 percent increase in attendance that day: more people than the Christmas or Easter services. The pews were full, and people were standing in the back of the church and listening out in the foyer.
In God we trust?
For all too many in this country, the answer is "No."
God bless America?
I can't help but believe that trust and blessing are directly related.
Far too many of us have put our trust in other things: our jobs; homes; cars; and bank accounts. These have interfered in the flow of healing and protection that we once enjoyed as a country.
The people of America need an adjustment. We need to be reminded of the admonition, "Put your money where your mouth is." Every coin and dollar bill tells us to trust in God. Before checking accounts and credit/debit cards, the more money you had, the more you were reminded. Perhaps it should be mandatory on every check and credit card.
As a doctor of chiropractic, you have seen firsthand the healing power of God as displayed in his creation. You know from where healing and protection (from disease) derive.
As you care for your patients, particularly those who are still reeling from this recent tragedy, you may want to share with them what you know about healing. Perhaps you can help them understand that the same God who gives health can also be trusted in every other area of their lives.
In God we trust?
I certainly hope so, especially if we are seeking his blessing.
Donald M. Petersen Jr., BS, HCD (hc), FICC(h)
Editor / Publisher of Dynamic Chiropratic
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