One of the most distinctive features of our country is Americans’ freedom. We are free to speak our mind, marry whomever, our press isn’t run by the government, we get to elect the president and have a democratic government, we have the freedom of religion, and a free society where consumers control the market. Most of all, people can live the “American Dream,” the opportunity to become who we want to be. America has a great entrepreneurial spirit, with many product choices and a thriving economy. America has a very diverse landscape and geography all over the country, giving us the ability to use our natural resources in many ways, and grow different kinds of crops. There are many distinct national parks along with numerous types of flora and fauna. America isn’t rooted in race or religion or ethnicity. To be American means to embrace a set of ideals that are the core of our democracy: a belief in equality, a belief in participation, a belief in the rule of law, and a belief in respect for each other’s rights. I grew up loving the song “This Land Is Your Land”, and now I can relate so much to it as we learn about American history at school. Americans want to see their children do better than they did, and this aspiration became the fuel of our country’s rise. It also became an incredible magnet for all those around the world who wanted to be in a place where opportunity was available to anyone willing to work hard, not just those with the good luck to be born rich. I see this in my family with my parents, who are first generation immigrants. Public education was essential to build a society that made opportunities come to reality. Programs that grant budding entrepreneurs’ access to capital and other essential elements to start a business were introduced. They’re not discriminatory on the basis of race or geography, because the idea is that everyone should have a shot at success. As Wendell Willkie said, “I believe in America because we have great dreams, and because we have the opportunity to make those dreams come true.” Now, it’s on us, the younger generation to amplify the greatness of our country and make meaningful contributions towards a more sustainable and peaceful world.
