An American, to me, is a patriotic, free, and liberated human being who has equal opportunity to succeed and dream. After studying and discussing poems with alternate definitions of Americans in class, I figured my vision would change, but surprisingly enough, my vision did not stray from my mind. Being the cousin of a New York City firefighter and EMT and the niece of a New York City police officer, my family was directly affected by the September 11th terrorist attacks. That event, which ultimately changed American history forever, instilled in me a particularly passionate feeling of patriotism toward my country and the soldiers, presidents, and proud citizens that represent it. Although my family feels cheated by intruders, I still believe that immigration is what keeps our country running smoothly. America is an admired place of residence, and I believe citizens should welcome those that are strong enough to join our powerhouse. Therefore, I particularly connected to “The New Colossus,” not only because it’s main “character” is the Statue of Liberty in New York City, but also because “the mighty woman with a torch” extends an offer other countries to “give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free...I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” I stand by the image of the golden door, because I believe that America is heaven. I stand by the image of breathing free in America, because we are a democratic country free of governmental interference and we can be educated and determined leaders of our own lives. Since 9/11, I perceive America as the ultimate golden door or entrance to diversity, a place of “world-wide welcome.”
Olivia, I agree with your perception of what an American is. My blog response on this topic was very similar to yours of what I believe America represents. I completely relate to your opinions that part of what makes our country so great is that we are notorious for accepting everyone for a chance at a better life and opportunity, yet at the same time it is a little scary that anybody can come into our country. Some people like to take advantage of how accepting our country is, which is why sometimes tragedies happen such as September 11. That day scarred many people around America, especially with the ten year anniversary coming up in a few days. I fear that more people with bad intentions might take over our country and bring terror again, but that's the risk we have to take when we run a great, accepting country like we do.
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