Immigration - History repeats itself

The issue of Immigration in the US is no doubt a "hot-button" issue right now. But is this a new phenomenon, or just History repeating itself?

For those that were not alive during the last great immigration (when our Grandparents/Great Grandparents came from across the pond), this seems to be something new or unique. What we all must understand or try to remember, is that this is not the first time thousands of people looking for a better life came to the United States. When our families first arrived, they too were met with great opposition from those that were already here. Unfortunately the majority, in any situation, looks down upon the minority and the first wave of immigrants were no exception to this treatment. They had to work hard and make many sacrifices in order to survive in this new land. Their goal was not only to better their own lives, but the lives of their families and future generations to come.

This same scenario is playing out right now as I write this. Those from countries less fortunate than ours are coming to America to pursue a dream, to not merely survive but to thrive and prosper. Like our Great Grandparents a century ago, they too want a chance to live the "American Dream."

Although there is great debate about the right way to handle this new wave of immigration, one thing should be clear, to deny anyone of the "American Dream" is to deny our own existence. Whether we like it or not history repeats itself, so when some say "we should send them all back to where they came," try to remember where you came from and re-think your position (IMHO).

"Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt." Abraham Lincoln