A Special July 4th for the Pope Family
Today I officially become an American citizen. I have lived in America since I was 18 years old so this has been a long journey for me and I have to admit the fact that I am finally here is insanely meaningful and emotional to me. Since I can remember I always wanted to be a mom and have a big family. I remember coming on vacation to America and staying with a wonderful big family that emulated love, values, faith, hope and positively. I think I decided then that somehow some way I wanted to raise my family here.
As I get ready to pledge my allegiance to the flag I can’t help but think of the first waves of Europeans that came across the ocean to seek a better life and I can’t help but feel a kindred spirit to them. Whether you are an American, want to become one or are in the process of becoming one I think being part of this country and its future is an incredibly exciting and privileged position to be in.
Of course we are not without our struggles as a nation but it is the people that are the fabric of this country, of this flag and it is the people that I feel I am officially becoming a part of and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Finally being official, so to speak, and getting my citizenship has really made me reflect on my journey to this point. No matter what struggles I still may face I have three beautiful children, and an amazing husband, so I truly feel like I am living my American dream. To be honest I am struggling to put how I am really feeling into words for this blog. It is awesome in the true sense of the word.
To give you a glimpse into the Pope family festivities for tonight, we will be down at the Jersey shore at my in-law’s house standing on our neighbors porch, raising the flag, listening to Zac Brown’s rendition of America the beautiful, toasting with Prosecco and eating whatever red, white and blue delicacy JR and Wellington whipped up with their Nana while I was taking the oath. JR keeps trying to teach me “American” words as he’s worried people won’t understand me now that I’m American! Apparently I need to learn how to say tomato correctly to really be an American-oh how I adore that boy.
In truth, to me being an American is putting family first, believing the impossible and achieving it, never giving up, and being kind to all those around you. Now that I’m official I won’t ever forget what this privilege truly means and I will spend my life trying to teach my children these values.
Okay now I’m going to sign off before I weep all over my blackberry and it stops working!!
What does being an American mean to you? I’d love to hear your stories here or on Facebook or Twitter.
Tags: 4th of July, celebrations, Citizenship, rosie pope
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Congratulations Rosie!!!!
From one (natural born) American to another, THANK YOU so much for doing this the right way instead of the illegal way!! Your story was great to read!!!!!
Congratulations! Your story really touched me – I have been living in the U.S. for about 3 years on an off, trained in dance, worked as an intern and finally had to return to Europe. You give me hope that trusting my instincts will one day pay off. Until then, I am doing my best in putting the values I appreciate so much about the American people to work here in Germany.