Dr. Ben Carson’s address at AmFest 2025 resonated with heartfelt appreciation, particularly as he honored Charlie Kirk. Carson opened with a poignant reflection on life and its fleeting nature, stating, “I miss Charlie, like so many of you do.” He emphasized the need to view lives through the lens of eternity, reminding the audience that even short lives can leave lasting impacts. Carson asked, “For his snap of the finger, how many lives did Charlie impact? That’s what we should be thinking about.” This framing set a contemplative tone, urging attendees to remember the significance of individual contributions to the larger community.
Carson did not shy away from expressing patriotic gratitude for America. “We are extraordinarily blessed, and we need to keep it that way,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that the nation was built on a foundation of freedom and respect for its citizens’ will. He highlighted the resilience of the United States, noting, “It’s 250 years later, and we are still here.” His words served as a reminder of the enduring promise this country holds for many.
The speech took a critical turn as Carson addressed the potential threats facing American values. He warned that adversaries, unable to defeat the nation militarily, might instead aim to undermine it through educational and cultural institutions. “If they could overcome us militarily, they would do it, but they can’t. We are too powerful,” he asserted, framing the struggle in terms of both strength and strategy. His thoughts on education captured his concern, as he posed thought-provoking questions: “Could we possibly infiltrate the teacher unions, and the public schools, so that we can indoctrinate the children?” Carson’s words allude to a perceived existential threat against the American family and traditional values, revealing a deep concern for the moral and social fabric of the nation.
Furthermore, Carson suggested that efforts to stigmatize the founding fathers and the Constitution exemplified a broader attack on American principles. He questioned, “Should we discredit the American Constitution, make it old-fashioned and out of step?” This rhetorical technique calls on the audience to reflect critically on historical narratives and the intentions behind them.
In delivering his remarks, Carson also touched on the historical context of slavery, emphasizing the unique American struggle against this institution. “The thing that really made America unique is that we had so many people who vehemently opposed the evil institution that they fought a bloody civil war,” he explained. This powerful assertion acknowledges the sacrifices made for progress and reinforces a sense of national identity rooted in overcoming adversity.
Overall, Dr. Carson’s speech at AmFest was not only a tribute to a respected figure but also a reflective discourse on the values that define America. His passionate appeal to appreciate the nation’s founding principles and to be vigilant against possible subversion strikes a chord with many who cherish both tradition and the country’s potential for greatness.
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