Text Introduction

What does it mean to me to be an American Citizen?

Upon reading the introduction to our text, Rereading America, I have had several reflections about what it means to me to be an American Citizen. I have always had great pride in being a US citizen, and gratitude for our freedom, prosperity, opportunity, technology, our rich heritage as well as our collective efforts to make this whole world a better place. America has been a "Promised Land" to many who have come here with hopes and dreams, to make a better life for them selves.

It is apparent to me that my feelings as well as anyone's feelings on this topic is an individual thing, that not everyone else shares. Some have a greater feeling that way, while others do not. As I ponder what it means to be a US citizen, a certain memory stands out in my mind from my own life. I had the opportunity to attend an Immigration Naturalization ceremony where 97 new citizens were to be sworn in. Two individuals there stand out especially. One man, who was from Mexico was dressed in a tuxedo for the occasion while others wore casual business attire. Another man left, he was from the middle east and part of the process was to renounce loyalty to the former country which he was not willing to do.

How might this text challenge or complicate my opinions?

I liked the examples in the text of how writing and reading go hand in hand. That will certainly challenge my thoughts and therefore my opinions. I felt that the text showed in examples of writing, how each individual experiences American culture uniquely. In being shown many diverse viewpoints of controversial topics not only do I believe my ideas and opinions will be challenged and complicated but also perhaps created. I look forward to reading Rereading America.