A New American

Mr. Stapers became an American citizen last Thursday. He participated in a moving ceremony in which 70+ different countries were represented. All of these people saying goodbye to their former homes and officially becoming part of the great melting pot. Only in America.

A few of the new citizens were asked to talk about what it meant to them to become American. The one everyone liked best was a very outspoken and genial man from South Africa, who clearly understood what America is all about and was overflowing with love for his new home. Reminded me a bit of this guy.

Hubby spent his first thirty-some years on this earth as a Finn, but never felt like one. Like many people who come to America from all over the world, he was born American, but just couldn't get here right away. After the ceremony, he said he felt like a weight had been lifted from him.

I've asked him to write something for this blog about his experiences and what it means to him to finally become an American, which he promised is forthcoming.

In the meantime, just know that America has imported another die-hard, freedom-loving, red-blooded fighting man.