My perspective on the Fourth of July was changed forever the summer I was not only out of the country, but one of two Americans on the mission station. One thing I've learned as I grow older is that whether we think we do or not, we all interpret events through the lens of our nationality. Watching movies such as the Patriot with a group of Canadians, walking through a WWII museum in England, seeing my flag on foreign soil, and talking to young people in Germany about current events made me think about my assumptions that came stemmed the fact I was born an American.
Those experiences made me a little more thoughtful about my heritage, and gave me some insight into how others saw me because of my nationality. It became more real to me that not everyone thought like I did or has the same worldview and set of values as I do. I became more aware of the unique blessings that I had inherited as a daughter of this nation, and the sacrifice of the men who died so I could enjoy these liberties.
While I hope I never become completely American, when I look at all the other nations out there that could be my 'passport country,' I'm glad God put me in this one. I hope I will always be first a citizen of His kingdom and servant to the world first and foremost--American second. We enjoy great privileges in this country--may we use them for His glory and to spread the Gospel of our Risen Savior to every nation, every tribe, and every person.
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