This article really hits the nail on the head.

I feel like I’ve been lamenting the descent of American life for over 20 years now, noticing the increasing gap between haves and have-nots and the hyper-individualization that has fueled the crisis.

I live overseas now and have for 14 years but it seems in each of my returns to the US (every few years), the signs of societal collapse and dysfunction have become more obvious: more dilapidated buildings, increasing obesity and conversations about various health problems as well as complaints about the so-called health care system, an increasing cost in basic necessities like food and more gripes about what’s wrong with other people.

Yet it seems clear to me that the solution rests in re-investment in a shared community and a sense of purpose, but it’s almost like the last thing many Americans want to consider: a social safety net that is not just economic but psychological and this net does not discriminate.

I’m trying to consider what I can do in my current position. Perhaps we can all put some thought into the part we can play.

Anyway, Umair, thank you for your frequent writing! You are becoming a go-to blogger for me and this one was one of your best yet!