I swear…

by · Published · Updated

As I write this post, I am realizing that in less than four hours I will become an American Citizen. 

That is so weird to write.

I don’t think I really knew if this day would ever come, mainly as I never really thought it was something that really mattered. I mean, I love my husband and he is the reason that I am here in the USA, but once we got married and had that recognized, and were then permitted to do what thousands of other “straight couples” had done for years, I was happy.

I was a permanent resident, thought the word permanent is probably misused in this context, as it can be taken away from you. A permanent resident has most of the same rights, protections, and responsibilities as a Citizen, with the exception of voting and jury service. And for a while, I was quite fine with that. I was always mindful that I have been so involved with the political landscape (especially in Frisco) but always was prevented from pulling that lever on issues that I was passionate about, and that was about to change.

The realization that after today I will be able to “pull that lever” and have my voice really heard; well let’s just say – for me, it’s a little overwhelming. It’s exciting as well, as not only can I vote, but I can run for office (if I decide that is something for us). And while I know most Americans dread being called up for jury service, I look forward to the day when I receive my notice to represent a group of my peers in a judicial setting. That is going to be part of my new responsibilities as an American.

For most Americans, who didn’t have to work to become a citizen, or be tested to be a citizen, or to be judged if citizenship is good enough, those two responsibilities are taken for granted, or more honestly, ignored. In many cases, often cursed. I can’t see a future where I would be one of those Americans as I know the true value of swearing an oath of allegiance to a different country than you were born in or a citizen of, and the responsibilities that this entails.

Today, I become an American Citizen and I’m ready. 

Tags:

James

James Nunn keeps himself busy running his business, volunteering when possible, hosting exchange students, sticking his nose into social issues but is generally considered a good guy. He loves to keep track of things using technology. He has a waning social media presence and is an occasional blogger capturing life's little (and big) moments. He was born in Australia, but now lives in New Orleans, Louisiana (USA) with his husband and two dogs.