via Giphy
What is Patriotism?
I think many Americans, myself included, feel conflicted this Independence Day due to all of the conflict and controversy that has driven our country and its citizens to feel more divided than in any other time in my lifetime. There are so many things about the current political and cultural climate that bums me out, but I try to remind myself what it is about July 4th that's really important. And despite my love of BBQs, fireworks, parades and all of the other American traditions that come with this holiday, it's really about the foundation of this country and what makes America so special. So even though I've spent the past year away from the U.S. traveling to 30 countries, I still love America and still believe in its promise. And as an immigrant who worked all of my life to contribute as a citizen of this country, I know that being a true patriot means that I don't blindly follow our political leaders, nor do I fall into hopeless despair that the country is so divided that we will never find a way back closer to each other.
Having the opportunity to spend time in so many different countries has not only given me a great appreciation of all that is beautiful and good in the world, but also reinforces much of what I love about America. So on this July 4th, I thought I would share some photos from my travels around the world that did just that.
America is Adorably and Wonderfully Diverse
We have people and children from all over the world living in America. Whether I was in Cambodia, India or Zambia, when I see such happy, beautiful kids in the world, I am so thankful that our country is a place where kids like this can come with their families and have as many opportunities available to them as possible.
This Land is Your Land/This Land is My Land
America's diversity is also reflected in our vast and varied geography from mountains, lakes, oceans and desert. We have it all. Below are photos from Turks and Caicos, Portugal, and New Zealand.
We Love Our Animals
Whether you're a cat or dog person, you love birds, have an exotic fish tank or love to hug your pet snake, the rest of the world does too.
Food For Any Occasion
I'm pretty sure that Americans came up with the term "foodie" which really just means we love food. And there's a lot of amazing food in the world, much of which we can get in the good ol' USA (thanks again to our diversity).
So I encourage all Americans to stretch past our borders and see as much of the world as you can. There's a great, big, wonderful world out there and the more you see it, the more you also think about how much there is to celebrate about America and what/who makes up our true strengths. America is great because we are so diverse and welcoming and I will remain optimistic and vocal that we must do everything we can to keep it that way.