What Does it Mean to Be an American?

What does it mean to be an American? It means different things to different people, but I would like to think that despite our differences, there are some principles and ideals that we all have in common. Being an American is not a God-given right. It is not an accident of birth. Rather, being an American is a privilege – and a responsibility.

In the wake of September 11th, I, like most Americans, began to reflect on what this nation stands for, and what it means to me. This country was founded on freedom – freedom of choice, freedom of speech, freedom to pursue dreams. This freedom that we often take for granted sometimes comes at a great price. It is very easy to criticize our country. It’s more than easy – it is another of the rights we have as Americans. We criticize our politicians, our military, our schools, and anything else that we don’t like. But in the midst of all of this, we should also stop and take a close look at ourselves.

How can we best exemplify what it means to be an American? We can become more involved in our communities. When cleaning out closets or spring cleaning, remember homeless shelters, the Salvation Army, and other organizations that could utilize things we no longer use. How about dropping off a vegetable tray or some snacks for our firefighters and police officers? They work to protect us, often with long hours (and little pay – or, in the case of volunteer fire departments, no pay). There are numerous programs in this country to help at-risk youth. We have many people living in nursing homes today who suffer more from loneliness than from any illness. A few minutes once or twice a month can make a tremendous difference. Closer to home, what about the young mother who never gets a break? Would it really hurt to invite her over for coffee once in a while, or offer to baby-sit one evening? Or the elderly gentleman living down the street – wouldn’t it be nice if someone cut his grass for him once in a while?

We can show more consideration for the needs and worries of our fellow citizens. We can exercise our right to vote. We can get involved, remembering that each of our little acts of kindness, when combined with the “little acts” of others, can add up to a better world. We can be more tolerant of the differences between us, and gain strength through the similarities. “United We Stand” should not be just a phrase. It should be a way of life.


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Copyright © Linda Kendzierski, 2004-2005

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