For a long time, I danced around the idea of joining the armed forces, because I can think of no better or worthier job than defending America. The idea of having a real and powerful purpose, great enough to even die for seemed better than sitting at home eating doritos and mindlessly agreeing with every CNN report concerning the war, true or not. I'm sick of people always just sitting down, waiting and hoping that after the commercial break, the news will give them a new controversy to chew on. I hate that. So instead I think I'll stand up and fight. My biggest passion in life is America, and it always will be. That's why I have decided to dedicate my life to her. America, the land of the free, and the home of the brave. This is without a doubt, the best country in the entire world. America does not exclude, or judge, or slander. Rather than take, America gives back; she doesn't lie, cheat, or steal. America is honest and forgiving. But what I like best about America is that it's my home, your home, everyone's home. So why are people afraid to love America? Why is it that 90% of my peers are not, at the very least, willing and ready to proudly stand, and affirm their honor to America? Whenever I find an error with America, I sit and think of all the brave men and women of our nation that stood up to honor the United States of America, and never, ever sat down. On September 11, 2001, we all stood up. We all stood up together, and we vowed never to relent defending our country. We did not falter, fumble, and we certainly did not forget our cause on that perilous morning. I want that America back. So... If you want to know about me, just look for the heart of America; I'm there. Yes, in your search, you'll probably find hatred and crime, and all the things I said America despised. You will, because I never said America was perfect. But look a little closer, and dig a little deeper and eventually you'll find the Real America, where people aren't afraid to stand up and say, not whisper the pledge, where all people are good at heart and mind, and where such a vast and mighty inner strength is drawn from and possessed within. Here, there will always be a candle in the window to light your way. When you find it, you will know that you are home. God Bless America.