Being an American, To Me
I can say and believe with all of my heart that America is the greatest country in the world, even though I have never lived anywhere else. We have so much freedom here, so much people take for granted. We can say what we wish, wear what we wish, come and go as we please. I vote in every election and primary. This is not only every citizen's right, but I feel it is his duty as well.
September 11, 2001, changed America. We are so egocentric here; this harsh reality check knocked us down a peg or two- but, oh, how quickly did we get back up! We proved to the world that we could gather together as a community and pull ourselves up proudly.
America is still the great melting pot, where many immigrants come to fullfill their dreams, their hopes. I got to witness a friend getting her citizenship- she was from Nicuargua. The pride in her eyes, her voice, her smile- she became an American before she said her promise, she was already one in her heart. She summed up how I felt as well, as she shouted out, "Let Freedom ring!"

Culture, community and family
Culture, community and family weave a colorful tapestry. Culture is the way one is raised- ideals, morals, values, attitudes and behavior all affect a culture. Community is the area in which one lives- a neighborhood can be the community. It can also mean a group of people who own the same values or beliefs, such as the Catholic community. Family can mean different things as well. I have a nuclear family that includes my mother and father and sister. My mother and father are divorced. I have been married 3 times. I have a husband and 3 children, 2 from one marriage and 1 from my second marriage. So, I have a very expanded family. I also consider the people I work with my "work family" (especially around the holidays, when it seems I am spending more time with them than with my own family!) To me, if I care about you, you are part of my family.

My husband, Michael
Growing up without parents wasn't easy. My mom and dad separated when I was 15 and my sister immediately ran away from home. My parents never fought, they were more like Ozzie and Harriet, so the divorce was a shock to me. My dad moved to Florida, my mom was constantly working, so I was left alone a lot. My first and second marriages did not work out for me. The way I was raised, a "normal" family had an authoritarian father, a passive mother and good children that listened and ate dinner together. That's what I wanted in life- that and the house with the white picket fence.
I met Michael playing a game on the internet. He was warm and compassionate, a real charmer. I figured he would be just one of those internet freaks you hear about, but he ended up being the biggest influence in my life today- in fact, I wouldnt be in this class if it weren't for him. He has been supportive and encouraging, allowing me to spread my wings and grow. Before him, I felt like I was always looking for something. Now, I feel complete, and my dream of what a family should be has come true.

My family