There’s an old saying, “You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.” And although it is true, as I am sure most people have experienced this phrase, I also believe that you don’t know what you’ve got until you take the time to think about it.

The reason I bring this up is because on a daily basis, I take for granted the things and opportunities I have. This is not to say that I am disrespectful or unappreciative, but rather I don’t take the time to think about the opportunities I have and the freedom I am given.

Every so often, I have a revelation, and for that moment in time, I am proud to be an American and live in such a prosperous country. Cheesy, you may be thinking, but it happens. On my commute to work, Passing Laguna Boulevard, there is an enormous metal water tower with a flag posted on the top. But one morning, this water tower was more than just a structure holding liquid; it sparked emotions in me that slowed life down for a moment and gave me time to reflect on what I was seeing.

With a cloudy blue, gray and slightly pinkish sky in the background, this water tower glistened in the foreground, while the American flag blew in the wind, stretching out every piece of fabric. Goosebumps covered my body and all I could think of was how lucky I am to be in America.

At the age of 19, I am driving to my full-time job, in a fairly new car, wearing professional clothing and listening to an assortment of CDs. What other people living in other countries would give to be in my place. As someone who just recently became an adult, I have the freedoms to vote, express what is on my mind, prosper and be equal. I am able to call myself a citizen and on that morning, I was damn proud of it. –

—- Do you know this emotion I am speaking of? Have you ever heard the national anthem being sung and that feeling that overcomes your body? That is pride and appreciation for your country. Whether or not you agree with politics, the fact that you are an American will always remain true. Take advantages of the times you recognize this and remember the freedoms you have, because they aren’t available for everyone.