A Strong America and Epicurus’ Lesson

LEGGI LA VERSIONE IN ITALIANO

I did not receive a classical education.

Until just a few weeks ago, I had never actually read Epicurus’ Letter to Menoeceus. I knew the title, I had heard a few famous quotations, but I had never taken the time to read what is considered one of the greatest reflections ever written on freedom and happiness. When I finally did, I was genuinely surprised. How could a text written more than twenty-three centuries ago feel so remarkably relevant today? Epicurus lived in an age of geopolitical upheaval, shifting alliances and widespread uncertainty. Yet his message was disarmingly simple: never allow fear to become the lens through which you interpret the world.

Reading those words, I could not help thinking about the present.

Today, a single decision made in Washington can influence global markets, businesses, international diplomacy and even the mood of families in Italy. That is only natural.

The United States remains the leading economic, strategic and cultural force of the Western world. But perhaps the real question is not what America will do. The real question is how Italy chooses to respond.

 Today, in Syracuse, I will have the pleasure of meeting Ambassador Tilman J. Fertitta, the United States Ambassador to Italy. At a moment when the international landscape is undergoing profound change, his mission represents far more than diplomacy. It embodies a partnership built on shared values, economic freedom, mutual respect and a common commitment to the future of the West.

Just as Epicurus wrote to inspire confidence and clarity during uncertain times, dialogue between Italy and the United States remains essential to building trust and opportunity.

As an Italian entrepreneur—and as a U.S. Green Card holder who has spent many years working between Italy and America—I have developed a deep appreciation for the United States.

I believe this is a moment when the world needs a strong America. An America willing to lead, to assume responsibility, to defend freedom, security and the principles that have made the Western world a beacon of innovation, opportunity and prosperity.

For that reason, I welcome President Donald Trump’s leadership. I see a renewed commitment to national interest, secure borders, productive enterprise and economic strength. I also see an effort to reaffirm the Christian heritage and moral foundations that have shaped Western civilization for centuries.

To me, this is not about isolation. It is about identity. And that should inspire Italy as well. If America is confident enough to believe in itself, why shouldn’t Italy do the same? Italy needs to become more united.

We need institutions that protect enterprise, reward work, preserve our cultural identity and manage immigration with both compassion and the rule of law. Without legality there can be no true integration, and without secure borders no nation can fully exercise its sovereignty.

A strong state is not an authoritarian state. It is a state that gives confidence to its citizens because it knows how to make decisions, protect its people and think long term. That brings me back to Epicurus. Peace of mind does not come from believing the world will suddenly become easier.

It comes from confidence in our own abilities. I believe that lesson applies not only to individuals. It also applies to nations. Italy should not fear a strong America. It should embrace it as its closest ally.

Because lasting alliances are never built on dependence.

They are built between nations that know who they are, respect one another and share a common vision.

America has chosen to believe in itself again. Now it is Italy’s turn. As Epicurus reminded us more than two thousand years ago, fear never builds the future. Confidence does. And I remain convinced that the future of the West will be shaped by a strong America and by an Italy that rediscovers the strength of its own identity.