Citizenship

What it means, to me, to be an American

As I stand in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol Building, I feel a sense of appreciation and liberation that overcomes every inch of my being. Below me- granite strong- is the circular stone where Presidents such as Lincoln, Eisenhower, Kennedy and Reagan, and various American citizens of eminent stature, such as Rosa Parks and the Unknown Soldiers from WWI, WWII, Korean and Vietnam Wars, have lain in state or in honor. Around me, paintings and statues stand powerfully to represent defining events in America’s history. Directly above, gracing the room at 180 feet, the father of this glorious overlooks his legacy in The Apotheosis of George Washington. 

Turning towards John Trumbull’s painting depicting the signing of the Declaration of Independence, I feel an overwhelming sense of empowerment that shoots chills up my spine. When our founding fathers signed this document, they did so knowing that if this new nation failed, they had, in essence, just signed their death warrants. These men singled themselves out as those who deliberately defied England. It is difficult to comprehend the magnitude of their action, as most will never be put in a circumstance with such extreme repercussions. Their example is the bar that each one of us should hold ourselves to. Being an American is about upholding what you solemnly believe to be true, knowing that the consequences will not always lay in your favor.

We have been given the opportunity as Americans for this precious state of being that seems inherent, but has been rightfully earned by those before us. We must remember that many have fought and will continue fighting for this liberty that we all hold so dear. Fighting and protecting our country and rights goes beyond serving on the front line as a member of the military, it’s a lifestyle choice. Most advancement in history have been made by people who push the boundaries of societal norms and fully embrace the opportunities that arise before them, not by those who live life grazing on shallow distractions and abiding by norms. Those who utilize and seek beyond what is offered maintain the American way. In the Bill of Rights, we are assured rights like the freedom of expression, religion and press, so begin with those- take your opportunities beyond the extent that seems plausible. If we do not challenge ourselves to succeed, to work from nothing to something, or explore the depths of a controversial issue, we are wasting the power given to us.

Spending time within buildings of such power and significance, I soaked in more and more each day about what it truly means to be an American. Embrace, respect, and empower your life with the rights we were granted by our founding fathers 235 years ago, and acknowledge its continuation with thanks to the brave men and women who have served, and continue to serve, this country through militaristic, scientific, philosophical, technological and global advancements.