Stars and stripes. Baseball and barbeques. Ford and
fireworks. These are the things that I immediately picture when I hear the word
America. Yet, when I ponder what America really means to me, abstract
adjectives replace rather basic nouns. America truly means freedom, bravery,
and pride.
The association of America with freedom is so common as to
seem cliché, but freedom and equality will never be overused or go out of
style. America was founded as a place where the individual could think freely
and live according to his or her own beliefs. It served as a land of opportunity
where hard work would merit profit. Both of these ideals still hold true today.
People came to America seeking freedom of choice, and that’s what they received.
For me this means I can practice the religion I want, attend the school I want,
and attain the career I want. Living in The United States of America allows me
the privilege of fating my own life.
When acknowledging the true meaning of America I can’t help
but remember and appreciate those whom I owe for the freedoms I spoke of above.
From the founding of our country, through two world wars, to current political
problems across the globe, countless men and women have fought to protect the
land we hold so dear. American heroes embody bravery. Acknowledging the lives
lost, picturing the countless memorials erected for them, and thinking of all
they gave up to stand for something great, I can’t help but associate our
nation with courage and valor.
It’s no secret that Americans are a group who love their
country. The countless flags hoisted around the nation provide proof of the patriotism
so prevalent. The silence of great crowds when the National Anthem is performed
at various events is evidence to me of the respect the American people hold for
the nation. I can honestly say that I am proud to be a part of a country that
grants so much and for a people that acknowledge its good. Pride in this nation for freedoms and opportunities, and those
who made such possible, will forever be a defining characteristic of the
American people.
Lee Greenwood summed up America in its true form- freedom,
bravery, and pride- perfectly in but a few short lines: “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 USA.” I love
and hold gratitude for this beautiful country we live in. This time of year
reminds me of how lucky I am to have been born in The United States. The Fourth
of July, Independence Day, gives us all a chance to celebrate America and what
it stands for. However, I do think we could all aim to remember, even just a
little more frequently throughout the year, what America really means.
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