When I heard a powerful rendition of the National Anthem by a talented artist at a recent sports event, it stirred a deep sense of pride and emotion within me. It wasn’t just the performance that moved me; the very essence of the Star-Spangled Banner resonates deeply with my upbringing. I was raised with a profound respect for our flag, our nation, and the brave men and women who serve it. My grandfathers, my father, and several of my family members are veterans, and we all stand united, hands over our hearts, whenever we hear that song and see our colors wave.
I also hold immense respect for our law enforcement officers. I teach my children to seek help from police when they feel frightened or in danger. I genuinely appreciate their sacrifices, trusting that most of them embody honor and duty in their roles.
While I don’t own a firearm, I understand that many of my friends and family members do, whether for hunting or personal protection. They ensure their guns are securely stored and inaccessible to children, and I wholeheartedly support their right to do so.
However, I also believe it’s important to acknowledge the complexities in our society. I stand in solidarity with the movement initiated by Colin Kaepernick and those who kneel in protest. I recognize that our nation grapples with significant issues and that the experiences of individuals can vastly differ based on their backgrounds. As a privileged white woman, I understand my perspective may not reflect the realities faced by others.
My love for this country runs deep, and that passion drives my desire for improvement. Just as I want to help my children when they’re unwell, I want to contribute to healing our nation. If peaceful protests, like those led by Kaepernick, can spark important conversations and drive change, then I support them wholeheartedly.
Moreover, I firmly advocate for gun control reform. I’m not looking to take away hunting rifles; rather, I want to ensure they are safely stored and that users are properly trained and licensed. The continued availability of weapons like the AR-15, which have been used in tragic mass shootings, is unacceptable. I stand with fellow Americans demanding changes to protect our children.
As a Christian, I believe in God and strive to instill the teachings of Jesus in my children. I am also a passionate supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, believing everyone deserves the right to live without fear of discrimination, to marry, and to have families of their own. I have family members who identify as gay and transgender, and we firmly believe that God loves all people. What truly defines us as Christians is how we treat one another, with kindness and grace.
We can embody multiple identities. I understand the teachings of the Bible, including the traditional views on marriage, but I choose to model my life on the love demonstrated by Jesus. He embraced the marginalized and the outcasts. I believe He loves my uncle, who shares corny jokes and happens to be transgender, as well as my thoughtful gay neighbors with their beautifully tended garden.
I cannot fathom raising my children in an environment that judges others based on whom they love. I believe that Jesus would be heartbroken by the senseless violence seen in cases like Philando Castile or Tamir Rice, both victims of a system that often fails to protect the innocent.
My faith and love for this country compel me to stand with those who are marginalized and fight for gun legislation reform. I believe in joining hands with people of all faiths—including Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, and those without a religious affiliation—as we work together to make our nation safer and more compassionate.
I refuse to be confined to a single label. I am a proud American Christian. I enjoy life’s pleasures like a good beer and the occasional colorful language. I attend church regularly, though not every Sunday. My values center on loving our neighbors and extending a helping hand to those in need. I acknowledge my privilege and strive to pay it forward. Every child—regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or background—deserves a place in this world.
Having lived in multiple states, my family often seeks out inclusive congregations when we “church shop.” When we do, we look for communities that embrace everyone, regardless of their differences.
So, when I stand for the flag or bow my head to pray, please don’t mistake me for the judgmental individuals who hide behind a facade of patriotism or religion to spread hate. That’s not the essence of my Christianity or my understanding of being American. If you want to label me a liberal snowflake, that’s perfectly fine—I embrace the snow here in Wisconsin!
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In summary, my identity as a proud Christian and American encompasses a commitment to compassion, advocacy for change, and a rejection of divisiveness. I believe in the inherent worth of every individual and the potential for our nation to grow and improve through understanding and dialogue.