What is the essence of America? Finding and maintaining that perfect, delicate balance between freedom "to" and freedom "from."
~Marilyn vos Savant, in Parade
As much as I talk about cultural differences, and what is right and wrong with the world - the most important thing that defines who I am and how I think is the simple fact that I am a citizen of the United States of America.
Yes, this young lady can, from time to time, be a bit patriotic. How could I not be? I live in one of the most amazing countries in the world! In just a short amount of time (compared to the rest of the world) this one country has shaped, chartered and set the pace for the rest of the modern world. Put aside your personal feelings - what the American people have accomplished is really mind boggling.
I thought I would explain to my non-American friends (and they are a-plenty) a little bit about this great country! Just like the quote above - the good and the bad of it all is that I have the freedom to express myself - and I have the right to be protected from those who might stifle my voice.
I thank God daily I was born in this great country. I celebrate this Independence Day (on Sunday) with some visual images of what make one feel patriotic.
To my muslim/arab family members across the ocean - watch the videos with an open mind. Know this is how most of us see our beautiful country. Enjoy the images, listen to lyrics, feel the hope. Because in the end - Americans carry hope in their hearts - and that, above all things - is what has kept this country strong.
** please open each video separately to see the full screen, if needed.
If you are interested in learning the story behind the Star Spangled Banner (our nation's anthem) - please check out this site.
Now - just what are we celebrating? Here is a little lesson - in 5 minutes!
Amazing dreams can come true!!
Response to crisis is swift - and we come together as one great nation:
My brave, strong grandfather fought for the world's freedom from dictatorship in this great war:
My father served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War.
To all of the men and women who work hard and risk their lives, so that when I go to sleep at night, I do not have to worry about my home being bombed, or my rights getting stripped from me.
I always loved this scene in "A Few Good Men" - makes you feel all types of patriotism!!
How cool is this???
Finally - what do we support and what has held true - and what was sooo earth shattering?? If you only watch one video on this blog today - Watch this one.
3 comments:
Inspiring!
Hi! Followed you over from Alabaster Cow.
I know what you mean in your first paragraph. We, in the united states, are lucky enough to be born here. Only 1 in 50 people in the world is lucky enough to be born in the USA. I heard our pastor give this sermon, and it gave me chills.
How blessed we are to have been born in this country.
What a lovely post and remembrance about what has brought us to who we are today. Absolutely wonderful post, Nicole. Wonderful.
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