I am an American.
A product of a proud legacy of the struggle of an ever changing republic founded on principles of democratic governance and the rights of the individual and the common good of the many. Our path has been often less than idealistic but it has been open, public and very much a family affair. Our strength comes from the willingness to put aside our differences for the common good of our namesake.
As an American I honor the legacy left to me by the sharing of my time, talents and yes, my money to further the hope of the future and leave a legacy to my children and their children. I want to make that investment as my parents and their parents before them did to make sure that my life was better than theirs.
It is an honor and a responsibility to provide for the sustainability of our nation. Supporting the operation of our government is a right and an obligation. We are judged by how we treat those in need and exercise the freedoms we have been given by God by the sacrifice of our youth to protect those same freedoms for our brothers and sisters across the seas.
If as an American I claim my right to freedom, I must allow that freedom to be tested to the breaking point by someone shouting their hate of me and my country. I must allow that freedom to be tested while the very symbol of our greatness is burned right in front of me. It must be tested by the sacrifice of our young men and women on battlefields far from our shores and judged by the level of restraint and professionalism when force is necessary to protect our rights. It must be tested as our borders strain to accommodate those seeking a better life. I must exercise my legacy by practicing tolerance, patience and a willingness to share my faith in our freedoms with those who will someday take my place.
I am an American….our greatness comes from our diversity and the fact that united, we cannot fail.