These words still burn in my ears, when in 2008, then to-be First Lady Michelle Obama said, "for the first time in my adult life I am proud of my country because it feels like hope is finally making a comeback."
America. I've spoke before about what that name means to me. The sound of her, is a beautiful sound. And hearing someone say, "America", sends me to see in my minds eye, our glorious Flag. I love our country. I love America. I always have.
Yes, we are a country with faults. We've made mistakes. I've not always been our best. We've often failed to live up to our Founder's designs (Even they did!). And there have been times where I have cussed some acts of our countrymen. But I have ALWAYS loved America.
Having faults and making mistakes, does NOT diminish the foundation of who we are. And we must re3cgnize those faults and mistakes, and work together to correct them. We are not perfect. No place is. But knowing I have options to relocate to any place in the world, there is no other country I'd rather swear my allegiance to. NONE.
Many years ago, I cussed my nations citizens. I was in my own very dark place, and very disappointed in many of my fellow citizens. I was angry and bitter, but I always loved seeing our Flag, and "America the Beautiful" and "God Bless America" were songs that would cause me goosebumps. Still does.
I've shared my thoughts about our Pledge of Allegiance.
http://american1st.blogspot.com/2011/02/our-pledge-of-allegiance.html
and we, ALL Americans, need to keep in mind, that while we work to improve on ourselves, WE are ONE country. Our common goal, should be to protect America, and keep our Flag a symbol that represents all of us.
Being proud of America, isn't the same as being proud of any party, or elected official, or whomever. We should always be proud of who we are as "a people", collectively, united. Sure, we can disagree and bicker. But upon our daily sunsets, we should remain Americans. And, not just when someone we want as President, is elected. If someone is only proud, when they get their way, then they don't really love America at all. If someone wants to "fundamentally" change America, then that person doesn't really love America at all. What those types want, is a country of their own design to love.
I love MY country, America. I love my country, over myself. I have, and would again, put my life at grave risk, for my country. I believe that today, more than ever before, we have a President who would not only NOT put himself at risk, but does NOT love his country, more than he loves himself.
Obama must go!
Romney-Ryan 2012
