I have lived in America for over 25 years - more than half my life, and almost all of my adult years. In January 2020, I became a citizen.
I was one of 96 immigrants from 46 countries who became naturalized Americans that day in a quite magical ceremony in Charlotte, NC.
We celebrated. In all our various hues and languages and accents. The journey towards citizenship had been hard for many. But now we were each a full part of the society and country we lived in.
We could vote.
I registered right there and then with help from the League of Women Voters. And then I went with some friends to eat some good old southern Soul Food. That day showcased the best of America - all round.
That was then.
Almost since that very day, I feel like our new citizenship has been tested.
More than once I have wondered if I had made a mistake. We are a mess, in America, at the moment. A big ol’ divided mess. Is this really where I want to be? In the middle of this mess? Is it even my mess?
The answer (most of the time) is - yes. Of course I want to be here. I have chosen to be here. This is my home now - the spacious skies, amber waves of grain, and purple mountain majesties - they’re a part of my present and history now too. And America’s mess is also now mine. I have as many rights AND as many responsibilities as any other American.
And while sometimes we would prefer this not to be true, America is still a global influence. Our choices have consequences well beyond our borders. Which is why I’m choosing to include a little sub-series in this newsletter called ‘America’s Next Chapter’. Not all posts will be about us and our issues (!) but at least once a week, I’ll include a post in this sub-series.
We are at a crossroads at the moment. Many critical institutions hang in the balance, including democracy itself. What we do next, matters. How we write our next chapter, here in the U.S., will change how the world’s next chapter reads too.
So, over the next six months or so, I will explore some of our big issues in America, and how we might consider routes to a next chapter that supports rather than diminishes our life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
This will be a personal exploration - in part, as a new American - but one that I deeply hope you’ll join me for. Our collective wisdom is needed now more than ever.
And a final word:
The next few months in America will be a little crazy, I suspect. While we engage and discuss, I also hope that you can find time to tune out and enjoy the sweetness of summer and fall. We will not solve all problems today or tomorrow; that will take consistent, thoughtful action. And for that, we need energy, friends, and solid mental health. Please do whatever you need to, to make sure you are well and happy. That is the only way we will write a good next chapter for all of us.
P.S. If comments become too unruly, I reserve the right to re-evaluate the open comment policy.
This is beautiful, thoughtful, and well written. I was lucky enough to be among the friends who were there with you on that magical day when our country became your country too. And I have never seen - nor cried - so many happy tears. If anyone who reads this has a chance - ever - to attend a citizenship ceremony anywhere in this country they should go. It is an experience like nothing else - and it will give you hope - in spite of all the craziness going on around us.
But I also agree that what we do here has consequences far beyond our borders, and we must be diligent. I too fear that we are headed into a particularly turbulent time. We must hold steady, remember who we are, stay clear eyed, and strong.
Looking forward to this series, Dr. W. 🙏