Two-stepping to a patriotic jig

Just let me take a step back for a moment to consider my roots.

Although its faults are many, its residents extremely varied, and both its present and history marked with violence, I love America.

I love America not for its government, not to for its war of terror, not for its imposition on cultures. I love America not for its shock and awe, not for its global ignorance, or for its military prowess.

I love America for its bare bones. I love America for the grassroots. Basically, I love America for its people.

People of all races, creeds, religions, ethnicities, and every other difference under the warm sun. Not that we don’t have our morons, thieves, and greed ridden criminals. This diversity is what creates the greatest beauty.

Out of chaos comes peace and out of America comes the greatest people I’ve ever met. Maybe it seems like I’m hypocritical of flip flopping like a politician but I’ve never doubted the ability of Americans. I’ve never doubted the ability to struggle from what seems hopeless and to come out stronger than ever.

Basically, I miss home. But I’m thankful for the amazing people from all the world that I’m meeting in Taiwan. However, I’m most blessed with the presence of intelligent, creative, open, honest, esoteric, stubborn, confident, and beautiful Americans.

Maybe it just says something about Americans who are willing to travel. To go out into the world with no clear plan. To out in search of anything without knowing whether you’ll find it or even caring. It’s that attitude that I not only relate to but also am thankful for.

When I do come home, I won’t come without gifts. I’ll come bearing lessons, stories, and a positive outlook. I’ll come with knowledge, motivation, and the smarts to back it up. I’ll come with love, hope, and an undying will to live. When I come home, I’ll bring the world back with me.