Through Trials and Tears :: English Literature Essays

Through Trials and Tears What is America? A young girl in a distant land asked her mother this question in a whisper as they were hiding among produce and goods on the docks trying to find a way our of their county. A way out of their life of poverty, persecution and even death. Looking for a new life in a new world, America. Some Americans don’t fell the meaning of this life, a life of freedom, a life of peace. To those in other countries like this family, it is something nearly impossible to reach, something only reached in a dream. Many Americans don’t feel the depth of America; they see problems in the government, problems in their jobs, and problems in their lives. But for those outside our borders, it is a life of perfection. Two of the most important parts of our nation are the patriotism we share and the rights our forefathers have granted us. Words cannot express the love and appreciation I have for this land and the people and thoughts that make it truly divine. Although there are fifty states with thousands of cities in America. It is all one nation. The United Stated of America reminds me of a great patchwork quilt, a quilt that has been sewn by the people who came to this land from all corners of the world, bringing with them many cultures, traditions, and many languages. All of those customs, ideas and people come together in a unique way that makes our country like no other. One of the most important parts of our nation is our patriotism. If we didn’t have patriotism in the early days of our country, then it most likely wouldn’t have survived. The word patriotism comes from the term used for the people fighting against Great Britain in the Revolutionary War called patriots. These men and women risked their lives to give us what we have now, freedom. Patriotism continued throughout history. In World War II women showed patriotism with Rosie the Riveter. This symbolizes women’s role in keeping the United States strong during the war. Even years later our country proves strong and united after the devastating attacks of September eleventh. After these attacks our patriotism came through in full force. Everywhere I looked I could see flags and symbols of gratitude for our country. Historians have concluded that Ancient Rome was so powerful and successful because of the patriotism of their Citizens and the fall of Rome was partly because of the loss of that support and love for their country.