COMPLETED

Goal #37 - Become an American Citizen

     On March 5th 2019, me and my son, Ethan, became American Citizens. Several things stood out to me on this day, but I want to share just a few with you.

     1.  President Trump gave the most beautiful recorded speech, welcoming us as citizens. He reminded us that from this day, this land is our land, with all the blessings that come from belonging here. He mentioned that we will always have the support and backing of this country, and thanked us for becoming part of it. The speech was really emotional for me. It was worded so eloquently. I know that some people will want to argue my last statement, but it's true. It was one of the nicest speeches I've heard. He reminded us that becoming American doesn't mean you forget your roots, and he encouraged us to share our traditions as we adopt Americas. I really appreciated his words.

     2.  My son is AWESOME. I actually already knew that, but as we sat together I could have burst with pride. He is an intelligent, caring, and hilariously funny individual, with a kind and beautiful soul. It was wonderful to share this moment with him. As we left the group that had come to support us and headed to the ceremony room, he put his arm around me and pulled me close. It was such a tender moment that I will never forget.

     3.  As the guests poured into the ceremony room, I noticed that I had more friends there than anyone else swearing in as citizens. I looked at the faces of my friends and realized they are actually my family. Their love and support was so deeply appreciated by myself and Ethan, and it was a reminder that I was never truly as alone as I thought I was. Since moving here, I have missed my friends and family so much, and that hasn't changed, but I felt a little isolated. I envied others for having family around them, and I often worried that my kids would feel the same way, what with having no cousins around to play with. I know how much I love my cousins, and second guessed myself constantly for moving my children away from family. But as I looked at the faces of my husband and my friends, all of those concerns went away. Because each one of them has been there for me and my family. Each one of them would be willing to drop everything and help me, they have taken care of me after my car crash, they have practically carried me back to safety when I fractured my skull, and they have allowed me to cry on their shoulders. They check on my kids even though they are grown up, dog sat Barkley, been on vacation with me, and stayed up late giggling with me. This is my home now, and I was never really alone. I have been blessed to be loved by some amazing people on two continents. How many people can say that? I'm sure there's a bunch, but I choose to believe there is no-one as fortunate as me when it comes to friends and family.