As I made my way across America, passing through North Carolina, I often heard people from the North express that the South is a significant issue for the country. Friends who aren’t really acquainted with the area tend to view it as a stronghold of outdated ideas, where remnants of slavery, racism, and a persistent Confederate mindset exacerbate heated discussions about race, guns, and societal progress. They see the South as entrenched in poverty and bias, locked in endless debates over what they view as outdated relics. But, honestly, those outsiders, including myself, haven’t really ventured down the back roads.
I encountered farmers, factory workers, professors, and all sorts of people. Their perspective is, “These outsiders are just plain wrong.”
A journey across America teaches lessons of gratitude
In reality, the South—and North Carolina in particular—holds a crucial place in the foundation of American strength. I sometimes forget that I spent my early years in the South, specifically in Kenton, Tennessee. There, we nurtured a deep belief in God and a strong sense of patriotism. Family values, an unyielding work ethic, and the capacity to overcome challenges were ingrained in us. And during my journey, I’ve recognized just how much these values have fortified me.
Last year, Hurricane Helen devastated small towns in the North Carolina mountains. Federal agencies struggled, but the local churches sprang into action. Volunteers arrived from all over, salvaging what they could, providing tarps for damaged roofs, and clearing debris.
At Lancaster Market, I witnessed an America that thrives without the need for politics.
I met a retired couple whose home was submerged under nine feet of mud and water. A team of church members, whom they had never met, came to pray over the wreckage and helped rebuild wall by wall. My wife remarked, “Pastor, we may have lost our home, but we didn’t lose our faith. Thanks to that, the people of God triumphed.”
Everywhere I’ve gone, I’ve encountered a dedicated work ethic. I strolled through mill towns where people aren’t chasing notoriety; they’re simply seeking to feed their families.
Family values are unmistakable here. One morning in a diner, a local newspaper reported that the North Carolina House of Representatives had initiated Opportunity Scholarships based on a sliding scale according to family income, aimed at helping children escape struggling schools. The state’s website states that “Opportunity Scholarships assist families in covering tuition and other necessary fees for registered private schools.”
A journey from a Chicago rooftop spans 3,000 miles, focused on restoring America’s spirit
Conversations with the families I met revealed programs like All Pro Dad and Responsible Fatherhood that encourage men to be present for their families.
In the cultural realm, the Legislature has restricted girls’ sports to biological girls, removed inappropriate books from elementary school shelves, and cut taxes to allow hardworking parents to keep more of their earnings. The income tax is set to drop to 4.25% this year, with further cuts possible if income levels sustain.
I’ve long been critical of the dependency that government has fostered in communities like Chicago’s South Side, but this feels different. The funds are being used to instill ownership, responsibility, and accountability, which could ultimately save money in the long haul. Ultimately, the decision to take advantage of these opportunities rests with the individual.
Throughout my travels, I was continually struck by the work ethic I observed. In mill towns, the focus wasn’t on fleeting fame, but rather on ensuring families have enough to eat. Last year, manufacturing jobs in North Carolina reached 473,000 and projections suggest a 3.5% growth by 2032, which means over 16,000 new jobs.
Yet, it’s the stories that linger in your mind. This year, over 20,000 military veterans are re-entering civilian life, bringing with them the discipline honed in service. The statistics are telling.
This year has seen a record in job announcements, with 33,745 new opportunities and $23 billion in investments. Companies like Jet Zero are investing $4.7 billion to establish a new aircraft facility in Guildford, creating 14,500 positions. Vulcan Elements is putting $918 million into a magnet factory in Benson for 1,000 jobs, while Novartis is investing $771 million for 700 roles in Durham. These are not mere handouts; they represent jobs for those who show up, work hard, and are grateful for the chance.
While there are certainly challenges in the South, just like anywhere else, the idea that this region is holding America back is misguided. The South embodies a revitalizing faith, families advocating for justice, jobs that sustain, and a shared patriotism that brings people together.
As noted in 2 Chronicles 7:14, if my people humble themselves and pray, then God will heal the land. North Carolina is doing just that and stands as a model for the rest of the nation. Here, the pulse of America remains strong.
