I was born with many blessings, privileges, and opportunities, unknown to many. I’ve never known what it’s like to be hungry or to not be able to get medical treatment when it was needed. I was afforded the privilege of being able to get an education. I was raised in a neighborhood that was safe, where I could roam and play without fear of being harmed. I knew nothing about forced labor, unless you consider normal chores as such, and there is a big difference. Dad and mom provided everything I needed, so I never had to resort to begging or eating out of dumpsters. I could indulge myself in pleasurable activities such as hunting, fishing, and playing little league baseball, while children elsewhere had to live in squalor. Indeed I have been blessed far beyond what I am able to describe, blessings not enjoyed by most people in the world, blessings totally undeserved.
In addition to all this, I had security. Not only the security of a loving family, but the security that comes from being protected by the greatest fighting force on earth, the United States Armed Forces! My favorite song in grade school was the “Halls of Montezuma”. It still sends chills down my spine when I hear it.
As an American I’ve had countless opportunities. I was told at an early age, “This is America. You can be what you want to be.” Compared to the rest of the world my life was relatively trouble free. When I failed I had nobody to blame but myself. I was free and just about everyone was urging me to be the best that I could be. I didn’t always listen, but I had the opportunity because I’m an American. I’m free!
I am an American! I am a red-blooded, true blue, stand tall American and proud of it.Joy floods my soul when I see Old Glory wave in the breeze. My heart beats faster when we sing the National Anthem. Tears come to my eyes I hear the pledge of alligence. Wonder overwhelms me when I read the constitution. Gratitude springs up within me when I see those in uniform. Admiration is felt in every fiber of my being when I see our veterans. And my bloods boils with anger when I see disrespect for the flag and hear disparaging remarks about our country. I am an American and proud of it. If you don’t love it leave it!
Because I am an American I will not give up, shut up, or tone down. My days on earth are limited and may be few. My duty is clear. I will do what I can, while I can, as long as I can, the best I can, to preserve liberty and justice for the next generation. Not only am I an American, I am a Christian and I will not give up hope, nor cease praying that God will continue to bless America.
