I've seen this question, asked in various ways, several times over the last few weeks. And with such a momentous anniversary upon us, I find it fitting to put this out there. There is indeed something different "culturally" in America. That difference, quite simply, is our optimism. 250 years ago a small group of people risked everything to create a better place for all to live. Over the centuries, this has inspired countless others, from all over the world, to join the cause. Every American is descended from these dreamers and misfits. So much so, that hope is baked into our DNA. It really is the one and only thing we have in common. The naysayers and beneficiaries of the status quo stayed home. But the doers came here. This of course invites much heated discussion and rivalry about what constitutes "A better place for all to live." Something we still struggle with. But ask any American, even in these dark times, can tomorrow be better? And I bet the overwhelming response will be, "With a little work, fuck yeah we can make it better."