You’re an American now
I AM HELPING a fellow flight attendant study for her US citizenship test. Born in Slovakia under communist rule, married to an American, mother of two Americans, living in the USA for 15 years, it’s now time to become a citizen. Daniela has a little book of sample questions. When was the Constitution written? Who was president during World War I? What does “rule of law” mean? We Americans fail miserably, not having thought about such things since 8th grade civics class.
Daniela passes her test, takes the oath, becomes a naturalized citizen. I give her a gift of a red leather passport cover embossed with the Great Seal of the United States of America, a majestic eagle holding an olive branch, 13 arrows in its talons. Inside the congratulatory card I write:
Register to vote!
Serve on a jury!
Bad mouth the president!
Criticize the government!
You’re an American now!
