Be Young, Be Dope, Be Proud... Like an American

Besides Halloween and Christmas, Independence day was my absolute favorite holiday. I loved BBQing with family, swimming and watching fireworks at night. I can't express to you how much I love fireworks, and it makes me sad that I haven't gotten to see it on the 4th for years now. I just loved knowing the whole entire country was lighting up the sky for America's birthday. I always felt like on this night we were all one. I had so much American pride, and I still do. Like damn, do I love our flag and will proudly wear it whenever I can. I've always been drawn to the red, white and blue. I love anything and everything that showcases our flags color, especially on Independence day.

Lately, I've felt conflicted about my American pride. I don't understand the dark times we are in. For a country that prides itself on being the Land of the Free, we sure do love oppressing peoples' rights. The constant attacks against women, people of color and the LGBTQ community are done with no real reason. Our current stance on immigrants and refugees is equally appalling and balling. We used to take pride being "the melting pot" of the world. We are a country of immigrants. None of us are from this land (well besides Native Americans, which is another horrendous topic) so where do we get off rejecting so many people that are in search of the American dream?

But in the darkness, you will always find light. There are so many selfless, loving, compassionate Americans that are intolerant to the hate that still exists today. Americans have been fighters since the day this country was born, and we will continue to fight with such ferocity for what we believe is right. We didn't come this far, to only come this far. For that, I am a proud American.