Proud To Be An American

"I'm proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free,
And I won't forget the men who died who gave that right to me,
And I gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today,
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land God Bless the U.S.A."

Chorus from Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the U.S.A."

What does it mean to be American? To live in America? It all depends on who you ask. But for me, a conservative, single, upper middle class woman, it means a great deal. It means freedom to live my life as I choose. It means worshiping the Almighty God in the church of my choosing (or not if I so choose). It means being free to write or say whatever comes to mind without fear of government retaliation or imprisonment. It means, as a woman, being free to own my own home and have a job that provides for my needs and wants. It means having the freedom to succeed at whatever I set my mind to and being able to choose my own path in life. It means remembering the lives of so many who, while defending this country, gave the ultimate sacrifice. It means thanking any soldier I see who is, or who has, defended this country. It means joy, hope, prosperity, and most of all FREEDOM!

Today we celebrated the birth of this great nation. For one day, as we attended parades, barbecues, family gatherings, community or church celebrations, and fireworks displays, we put all of our differences aside and stood together to remember and reflect upon what this country means to each of us.

Is this nation perfect? No, not be a long shot. But given the choice I wouldn't live anywhere else in the world. I thank God everyday for the privilege of living in this great land, because, you see, I am proud to be an American.