American citizenship is a privilege

I am an immigrant, a legal immigrant, and proud of it.

Since my birth country (Germany) was the defeated enemy of the United States, I was subjected to quite an inquisition upon becoming an American  citizen. Questions like: Do you speak English? Do you read and write English? What is the Constitution? How many branches of government? How many states? Senators, congressmen? Etc., etc.

When I married my American husband, I adopted his country with all its laws and I nurture the freedoms it represents and also the responsibilities it requires. I always worked hard — nothing has ever been given to me and I never expected anything.

I take being an American very seriously. I honor and respect the flag and the anthem because it is my flag and my anthem!

I exercise my rights, granted by the First Amendment, abundantly: I freely speak up and voice my opinion, I worship when and where I please and attend peaceable assemblies at my pleasure. Most of all, I vote and perhaps make a difference by doing so and I pay my taxes (oh, do I ever!)

This immigrant is proud to be an American citizen, especially since I became one by choice and determination not by accident of birth or some “magical wand.” Being an American citizen is a privilege and has to be earned not given away.

MARGARETE FALLAT

Ponderay