With the media becoming increasingly partisan and aligned with various political camps or corporate interests, the internet is the only outlet for independent thoughts to flourish and individual opinions to get exposure.
Individualism, independent thoughts, and innovative actions have made America great. Diversity and the “can do” spirit which comes out of the boiling “melting pot” of the ever-changing American experiment is the essence of our exceptionalism.
In 1984, I had to make a choice of becoming an American citizen or pursue my dream elsewhere. Unlike typical immigrants, my choice was not dictated by economics. Though born in one of the poorest countries of the world (then East Pakistan, now Bangladesh), I had an upper middle upbringing. Educated in Catholic schools (Holy Cross and Jesuit), I had a Ph.D. in Economics and Finance with the choice of going “back home” or go to any number of countries looking for young talent.
I CHOSE to be an American because I was fascinated with the idea of America. I saw in awe the Watergate hearings where a sitting President was held accountable, the creativity of America business from pioneers like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, the election of Barack Hussein Obama as President and the generosity and volunteerism of the everyday people seen and experienced by all here and abroad.
For me, unknown to myself, I too was touched and shaped by the idea and spirit of America. I had mentors who helped me and others who opened the doors without expecting anything in return. Is America perfect? Even the most ardent patriot will affirm that we have long ways to go. Through this blog and in my writings, I hope to contribute towards the goal of always trying to be better. John F. Kennedy said, “For of those to whom much is given much is required”, borrowing from the Bible (Luke 12:48), “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required.”
It is time for me to give back.
Faisal Rahman, Chicago June 1, 2020
Excellent article, I really enjoyed reading. Uncertainty of dealing with the m pandemic which most of us did not face in our lifetime is killing us…slow poisoning. Virus kills lives but uncertainty and loosing the quality of everyday living kills our mind.
I am an “American by choice“, and I am proud to be a naturalised citizen.
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