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Why Do You Love America?

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Why do you love America?

That elementary school essay question came to mind yesterday as I watched 46 proud and buoyant people become naturalized American citizens in Federal judge Earl Britt's courtroom in Raleigh.

It was one of the most moving and meaningful ceremonies I have ever had the pleasure of attending.

I flashed back to the third grade in Morganton. I was sitting on my father's lap and I asked him to help me with my school essay.  He told me the story of my ancestors who fought at the Battle of Kings Mountain in the Revolutionary War. The McDowells of Quaker Meadows were major players in this crucial Patriot victory.

I gleaned two things from that conversation with my father - how thankful I should be for my courageous ancestors but more importantly how grateful I should be for the many freedoms I have as a US citizen.

My father went on to say that we should often ask ourselves: "Why do I love America?" He said we should never take our many blessings for granted.

Today as we start the Memorial Day holiday weekend I ask you:

"Why do you love America?"

I look forward to your responses.

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