Americans share pride, responsibility

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I think this is worth publishing. I do not know who wrote it. -- Vernice Baumstark, Cape Girardeau.

I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or his culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Americans. However, the dust from the attacks had barely settled when the politically correct crowd began complaining about the possibility that our patriotism was offending others.

I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge against anyone who is seeking a better life by coming to America. Our population is almost entirely composed of descendants of immigrants. However, there are few things that those who have recently come to our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand. This idea of America being a multicultural community has served only to dilute our sovereignty and our national identity. As Americans, we have our own culture, our own society, our own language and our own lifestyle.

This culture has been developed over centuries of struggles, trials and victories by millions of men and women who have not only sought freedom, but died for it. We speak English, not Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, learn the language.

"In God We Trust" is our national motto. This is not some Christian, right-wing political slogan. We adopted this motto because Christian men and women, on Christian principles, founded this nation, and this is clearly documented. It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our schools. If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture.

If the Stars and Stripes offend you, or you don't like Uncle Sam, then you should seriously consider a move to another part of this planet. We are happy with our culture and have no desire to change, and we really don't care how you did things where you came from. This is our country, our land and our lifestyle.

Our First Amendment gives every citizen the right to express his opinions, and we will allow you every opportunity to do so. But once you are done complaining, whining and griping about our flag, our pledge, our national motto or our way of life while receiving free health care, loans, grants and other amenities from the taxpayers, I highly encourage you to take advantage of one other great American freedom: the right to leave.

I have heard of people dying who were trying to be a part of America, but not dying to leave it. Our freedom is your freedom. Share it -- the responsibilities, the pride, the way of life. Don't abuse it. Think about it.