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Emotional experience Stirring ... inspiring ... thrilling
Stirring ... inspiring ... thrilling.
When I received notification on Sept. 22 about the naturalization ceremony scheduled for Sept. 24 at Patrick Henry’s Hanover County home, Scotchtown, there was no hesitation — I was going to attend.
And it was one of those occasions in my career when I couldn’t have made a better choice.
Forty-one people became Americans that day and, with a lump in my throat and fighting back tears, I was able to share in their once-in-a-lifetime moment.
The chills started when Patrick Henry High School’s a cappella group, “Soundsations,” performed “The Star Spangled Banner.”
Too often we take for granted how great our country is, but that song is such a strong reminder of where we came from and who we are.
How amazing to stand and watch 41 new citizens recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
I remember the morning devotion and paying tribute to the flag of the United States of America throughout school.
I could only imagine the feelings those people must have been experiencing as they waited to recite the Oath of Allegiance.
Where they came from or where they have been were tossed to the wind. They are now Americans.
Smiling faces filled the tent before, during and after the ceremony.
It was with great pleasure that I was able to congratulate some of those new citizens afterwards.
One woman stood near the exit with her U.S. flag waving in the breeze.
I offered congratulations as I headed toward my car and she offered a broad grin with her “thank you.”
I try to start every morning by thanking God for another day.
Last Wednesday, I added a special thank you to Him because, like those 41 happy faces, I’m proud to be an American.
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