What Citizenship Means to Me
by Bruno O., Houston, TX
Winner of the Citizenship Month Poetry Contest, Nov. 13, 2014
I breathe the air of citizenship
It’s palpable fresh scent rejuvenates me
It reminds me of my rights
But what does citizenship mean to me?
I walked into the promise land
Given the opportunity to change my destiny
Now I have the chance to express who I really am
No one shall eliminate me for believing what I swallow
No one will kill me for my existence
Being a citizen reminds me that I’m alive and no one can alter that
I breathe the air of citizenship
It’s palpable fresh scent rejuvenates me
It reminds me of my rights
But what does citizenship mean to me?
I can vote to believe what will help our society
My vote can change the future of my country
Because my vote has meaning
I have the right to testify on what is just
I can defend my beliefs
Because my vote has significance as a citizen
I breathe the air of citizenship
It’s palpable fresh scent rejuvenates me
It reminds me of my rights
But what does citizenship mean to me?
I have the opportunity to gain knowledge
It empowers me as an individual
It creates a career I truly dream of having
To protect my beloved children when dangerous time comes
I breathe the air of citizenship
It’s palpable fresh scent rejuvenates me
It reminds me of my rights
But what does citizenship mean to me?
I can live my life knowing I’m safe
Knowing that I’m accepted
I can fully appreciate what my country has given me
As a citizen of the United States
I am proud to be a representation of the red, white and blue
Living the life of liberty, in the pursuit of happiness
I breathe the air of citizenship
It’s palpable fresh scent rejuvenates me
It reminds me of my rights
But what does citizenship mean to me?