Op-Ed Columns

As we celebrate one more year of independence, I would like to ponder one of the most important qualities of our country and the American people: pride.

I am talking about the pride we feel from being citizens of the greatest country on the planet, the pride that makes us fly our flags on the front porch of our houses; the pride that make us, or most of us, love and honor our servicemen and women; the pride that makes us angry when our land is ridiculed or attacked by people in other countries and, even worse, by people in our midst.

Some people might have you believe that our sense of national pride is something bad and, definitely, something that should not be promoted. They claim that our nationalism should be replaced by internationalism and multiculturalism. I beg to differ; I believe that our national pride is the source of many good things. It makes us believe that the United States is fundamentally a good nation, a fountain for liberty and an example to the rest of the world. A generous nation that has and continues to attract millions of immigrants every year and lends a helping hand wherever it is needed.

I believe that it is acceptable to be proud of our culture, values, form of government, accomplishments and the lessons learned from our mistakes. It is also right that we strive to maintain our values and culture. The consequences of losing our national pride can be seen in other countries. Imagine a country where we would have to take into account what other countries and cultures think regarding the way we live, the laws we have, and the values we profess.

A certain politician said not so long ago, "we cannot maintain our homes at 72 degrees, drive SUVs and expect other countries to like us." The question is, do we modify what America is to please other countries and thus destroy our way of life? And if so, how do we please everybody? What are we willing to do to be liked abroad? True courage is doing what is right, even if other people do not approve.

I am a naturalized citizen and I am proud to be an American. Long ago, the founding fathers of this nation declared independence from Great Britain and gave birth to the most successful nation in human history. Today, centuries later, we celebrate their courage, vision and wisdom. I believe that the best way to honor their legacy is to maintain our independence and to continue to be the nation everybody tries to emulate and follow.

Let us reject any notion that we are a bad country with antiquated values. Let us be proud of what America is.

Manuel Cardenas lives in Anniston.