I never would have considered myself a patriotic person before the World Race. In fact, fed up by political corruption, environmental destruction and mass consumerism, I was pretty cynical at times. However, the longer I have lived overseas the clearer my view of America has become, and the better I understand how fortunate I am to call America my home.
When encouraging the students I worked with in Kyrgystan this April to discuss their dreams many of them listed “go to America”. Questions such as “how can I get to America?” and “my application was rejected, do you know how i can receive an American visa?” are questions I hear every day on the race. To be honest, the odds are stacked against these young people. Opportunities for greatness in the country of Kyrgystan requires knowledge of multiple languages, unlimited financial resources and an influential family. People around the world recognize that a surefire way to success is only a plane ride away in the LAND OF THE FREE.
I never realized the priveledges we possess every day in the states. While working with english students this past May, someone asked me “if you could be born in Mongolia instead of America, would you?” My answer was immediate, “there’s no way I could give up my home.”
I listen to people all around the world trying and failing to get into the United States. Every time I ask someone “would you like to visit the U.S. someday?” The answer never fails to be “yes, of course, but it’s so difficult to get in.” We, on the other hand, have access to almost every country with our American status. While living overseas I have received protection because of where I’m from, governments know not to risk offending or endangering our lives. I have received favor from the military, teachers, and families time after time, and at each small border crossing I see an official’s face light up as they read my passport saying “America, ooooohhh America.”
Other countries do not have that same access. I give up my birthright, I give up the world.
While in Kyrgystan we also attended a “cultural day” held by the faculty and staff at a local university. Different cultures from around the world made an appearance; Korea, Japan, China, Mongolia, the United States, and each played a video before the dances and songs were displayed. I had been gone from my home for 18 months at this point and was sitting in eager anticipation for the American performance. As the movie began to play, beautiful landscapes such as Lady Liberty, golden fields of wheat and the busy streets of NYC were unveiled. My new friend, Nilufar sat next to me and leaning over she whispered in awe “it is very beautiful.”
I have never felt so proud to be an American. My heart seemed to stop as I watched each scene unfold before me, the weight of our freedom sinking in for the first time. “Yes” i said to her, a tear falling down my cheek, “it is”.
Returning home I have been reminded of the many wonderful gifts we are surrounded by each day. These are just 11 I am so thankful to enjoy again this Fourth of July.
1. Showers with nozzles on the wall, (not crouching like Gollum every time I take a shower).
2. Outlets in EVERY room, sometimes multiple!
3. Sitting wherever I want whenever I want (this was a big no no in Asian countries).
4. Toilets that have full length doors (locking doors at that!) and plumbing.
5. The freedom to worship.
6. SO MUCH WATER. Restaurants just keep bringing me refills?!?
7. Not worrying about officials in restaurants overhearing my conversations about Christianity.
8. The food choices. So many brands and types and specialties. Like. SO. MANY.
9. Our access to knowledge is instantaneous and virtually unlimited.
10. Another glass of ice cold milk from a jug please? Cold. Jug. Milk. Not yogurt. Milk.
11. The ability to talk about Jesus anywhere, and feeling no fear of torture because of it.
Can someone say God bless America?! Like FOR REAL, He has.
It’s normal to take for granted everything we’ve always had and get caught up in the minor irritabilities instead. Coming through the airport in San Francisco last week, I was quickly reminded of how efficient (unfriendly) and professional (rude) our customer service can be. I couldn’t help but smile at the employee rolling her eyes as I tried to figure out the self check-in machine. However, this couldn’t bring me down as I breezed through the “U.S. Citizens” line and came to the clerk checking passports. He quickly scanned through the colorfully marked pages and looking at me said, “welcome home, Miss Spencer.”
I met his eyes, knowing he had little idea of the magnitude this statement held for me. Smiling, I responded “thank you, it’s good to be back.”
You have no idea how good.
Be reminded this Independence Day of what it truly means to be a citizen of the greatest nation in the world, the United States of America.
The view of San Francisco from Alcatraz Island
Enjoying time with family in Amish Town- Smicksburg, PA
My sister Shelly and I at “Heritage Days Festival”-Ford City, PA
Thank you to the men and women who have made our freedom possible. Thank you to those who have fought, and have paid the ultimate price. Thank you to those who say this country is worth the sacrifice, and to the families that love and support them every day. Thank you and may God continue to bless America.
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”-Galatians 5:1
Beautiful. Can’t help but think how very, very proud your Nana Faye would be of you. I love seeing you post from time to time. God Bless you.
Welcome home, Emily! I love you and look forward to seeing you soon!
WELCOME HOME, Emily Spencer!! God Bless you & your transition back HOME!! Love you, girl!!
Thank you Emily! That was just beautiful! We are truly Blessed!
That was beautifully written and a great reminder of what we have as Americans and what was and is sacrificed every day to maintain our freedom. We take so much for granted in this country, like clean water and freedom of speech. So glad He’s a patient God. Welcome home.
Welcome home! So proud and honored that our lives crossed paths.
So Beautiful!! This made me tear up!!! You are a great communicator! Love you!
You are amazing, you look amazing, its amazing your home. Can’t wait to have an amazing time with you!
Yup. Definitely made me cry!
Loved this Emily!
This is beautiful Emily, just as you are inside and out. We are so blessed that our Heavenly Father chose for us to be here, when He could have placed us anywhere in this world. It astounds me to be so blessed! I am also so grateful to you and all World Racers for carrying Gods love and truth to the world! I pray that the seeds you all planted over the last 11 months continue to grow and spread! Happy 4th of July to you sweetie!
Such a beautifully written reminder of our endless blessings we have to be thankful for. We all need a glimpse from the outside. I’m so thankful and proud to be an American and to enjoy our God given freedoms. I love you and am so happy you’re home! Mom. Xoxo
Glad to see you back and great reflection of America. Remember when our family came back through the Golden Gate bridge on French Freighter ship from Hong Kong. I was twelve years of age.
Remember also when you prayed with me facing surgery. Not realizing six hospital admissions in six months with medical complications. Now having a “New Normal.” Where do you go from here? Blessings and Prayers, Dave and Beverly Cowles.
[email protected].
Beautifully written, Emily. I can’t imagine all the wonderful experiences you’ve had. What a journey.
So beautiful and so happy to have you home. Love the pictures! Love you!!!
Thank you so much Ms. Anita, I can’t wait to see you!
LOVE YOU Mama Squanda!! Thank you 😀
I appreciate you sharing, we are so fortunate! Love you!
You are so right. Thank you for taking the time to read it and for following us along and supporting us so much on this journey.
I love you JESS!!!! Thankful for you and our journey together.
Thank you for reading it!!! LOVE YOU!
AWWW Faithy, I can’t wait to have an amazing time with you too. I love you dearly.
haha, Tera! You are such a kindred spirit, can’t wait to catch up asap.
Thank you Ginny!
Wow thank you so much for your prayers and support this year. It has truly been a gift to be a part of this squad, they are world changers! I hope you had a wonderful holiday with your sweet family!
Thank you momma, i’m so happy to be home!
Wow, what an incredible memory, thank you for sharing with me. We will continue to pray as you adjust to this new lifestyle. I am so excited to teach this summer at Warner University. Can’t wait to catch up!
Thank you Lauren, can’t wait to see what happens with you on your next adventure! I’m so proud of you.
That means a lot to me, thank you for following along on my journey. God bless you!
Shkishker thank you!!! I love you lots and can’t wait to see you today 😀
Emily,
This is one of the most beautiful blogs you’ve written. I am reminded over and over and over again how fortunate we are to live in the USA. We needn’t brag about it, but we also can’t take it for granted. We must use our fortune to help those around us in the way Jesus would. I love you, glad you are back, and praying for you in this transition time.
You have my number.
Yes such wise words! I agree 100%. I am so glad to be home and I’m looking forward to catching up with you. Love ya sis!