An essay on Larry Correia’s website suggests that America can be seen as a collection of diverse cultures and identities, rather than simply 50 states. The author, Jack Wylder, uses the metaphor of “200 countries bouncing on a trampoline” to illustrate the vibrant tapestry that makes up the nation. This diversity allows individuals to find a community where they feel they belong.
The author shares a personal experience: both he and his late wife, Janet, grew up in Michigan but felt out of place there. Their move to Texas brought a sense of belonging they had not found before. He reflects that remaining in Michigan might have meant a life of discomfort for them.
Historically, Americans have shown tolerance toward various cultures, allowing for a coexistence that, while sometimes strained, has rarely escalated to violence. While prejudices exist, they tend to remain verbal, with individuals generally more focused on their own lives, provided others do the same.
However, this spirit of tolerance appears to be waning. A meme circulating online captures this shift: one person asserts the right to their opinion while another insists that opinions must echo their own. This encapsulates what has been termed “cancel culture,” where conformity in thought and belief is increasingly demanded. This trend undermines one of America’s core strengths: the celebration of diverse opinions and the freedom to think independently.