A Time of Lament and Celebration

A Time of Lament and Celebration

On this 250th anniversary of our nation, as Americans gather on July 4 beneath skies illuminated by fireworks and streets adorned in red, white and blue, my heart is fraught with mixed emotions. I love this country, yet I grieve for it. I celebrate the democratic...
What, to the Immigrant, is the Fourth of July?

What, to the Immigrant, is the Fourth of July?

I have a picture of myself dressed in an actual American flag costume that was hand-sewn by my mother. Ours was a musical family, and when I was growing up, the Fourth of July often involved concerts in the park. My parents, my brothers, and I would perform patriotic...
Why I Still Believe People Can Change

Why I Still Believe People Can Change

I choose to believe in certain things. Like how the color of my socks impacts a college basketball game. Or how Duke’s mayonnaise is the only acceptable condiment for a proper tomato sandwich. I’m prone to believe my hair looks better on the second day...