Standing Strong

You know I was watching a news program which said something like 8 out of 10 people have or are experiencing depression after the terrorist attacks. I thank the Lord that I have not felt depression. Why? This is out of the ordinary for me. I am an emotional person, I myself have recently been dealing with a spiritual attack on my life. With faith and God's love, he has taught me to hope always and trust in Him. I have overcome it and continue to stand strong in ALL trials. However, I do frequently feel the pangs of sorrow as I listen to the heroic testimonies of many fellow citizens who died for "strangers". It moves me to tears and a grateful spirit I have for the things I take for granted... such as the country I live in and the people I share it with.

Proud to be an American

One of my Filipina friends commented on how I am the MOST American out of everyone (sarcastically). This was after a comment I made of wearing a NY shirt to school the day after the attacks. I thought to myself, what does that mean? Was I supposed to be ashamed? Am I supposed to be MORE Filipina? and if so... how is that?

I thought to myself. Our parents brought us to this land for a reason... freedom, opportunity, and a better living. Have I lost my identity? I still have the brown skin, Filipino features, and Philippine ancestry as well as immediate family members in the Philippines whom I embrace and love as my own. My own cousins, the last time I visited, expressed their desire and dream to one day move to "The States".

Do I deny my heritage? Not at all. I am also proud to be a Filipina... as well as American. My son is only half Filipino, but I still have him call his Filipino family members by Tita (Aunt) and Tito (Uncle).

What is American? There is no color attached to it except red, white, and blue. What culture does it carry? It's a melting pot of chinese, japanese, hispanic, african, indian, arabian, british, etc... american. So if you asked me... I am VERY proud to be American!
posted by spirit filled 10:45 PM