Editor’s note: Frances Smith submitted this essay that her son, Michael Smith, wrote as a seventh grader in Polk County in the mid-80s.
I am proud to be an American because we have the right to speak our freedom and feelings.
We also have the right to be what we want to be and do what we want to do, but abide by the rules and laws.
One other reason why I am proud to be an American is because it is the home of the brave. It is also the promise of freedom that we enjoy so much.
There are no harsh restrictions like other countries have for children. In our country, we are very lucky to have all the activities we have in our country.
We can attend the church of our choice; freedom to worship.
In America we can vote for our president and other high offices of government. If we do not like the decisions our president or governors make, we can speak out.
We also have the right to bare arms in our homes to protect us.
We cannot own or possess anyone or force them to work for another.
America allows school children to behave as they like and not be forced to wear certain clothing (like uniforms) as some countries do.
Schools are a choice of each student, and for this, I am proud to be an American – freedom to study and learn.
In this country, we can be born poor, but with the determination and interest, students can go to college or tech schools for educations. Students grow and become active in the towns and cities of their choice. Freedom to live and work where one decides after college or tech school study.
These are just a few reasons we can stand tall and say that we are citizens of the greatest country in the world.