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When I was younger, I didn't have an appreciation for the privilege and honor that I have in being an American. I place my hand over my heart and recite the pledge for three reasons.
1) My ancestors were instrumental in building this country. They toiled this land, built its railroads, etc. My family members fought in wars, helped to build communities, fought for my rights...all of this came at a price...but its a system that is not paralled elsewhere...so I appreciate the US, and I uphold the original values as documented in the pledge of allegiance.
2)I say this pledge as a prayer...that we will all have liberty and justice and that it will become a nation UNDER GOD. I commit to those values, and so I recite the pledge.
3) I've been outside of the country. I've been to Africa and England. I've studied international politics. When I look at other places throughout the globe in comparison with this nation, I am glad to be called an American...and therefore value the pledge as mentioned in 1. When you are abroad and away from all that is here...you will surely have a new sense of appreciation for what is here. Amidst all the politics, socioeconomic types of strife, and racial differences....I still appreciate the US.
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