America has always been known for pride and patriotism. We love our red, white, and blue, and we aren't afraid to celebrate the land of the free. Even in difficult times, that's exactly how it should be.

Lately, I have seen a lot of people talking about how America is in a terrible state. People are bashing the U.S. and saying they need to move to another country. I completely understand the frustration with everything that has been happening lately, and I agree that something needs to change. However, I am a firm believer that our loyalty to our country should not falter just because times are a little tough.

People are always talking about how we need change in America, but in all reality we should be talking about how we can be the change. As John F. Kennedy famously said in his inaugural address, "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." I personally think we need to get back to this mentality and start working to build our great country up to its full potential.

It has become so ridiculous how people are constantly just looking for handouts and demanding things to be done for them. How can you expect anything from your country if you do nothing but bash it and refuse to contribute to society? I know we don't always agree with our government or political leaders, but that does not mean America is hopeless. People seem to have forgotten that our country is great, but we are the ones responsible for making it that way.

Spending July 4th outside of the U.S. this year reminded me how thankful I am to live in America. There is no country I would rather call home. Even though things aren't perfect, we should remember that we are blessed and we need to give back to America. I believe that we must choose to see the good instead of just focusing on the bad.

I am constantly reminded how thankful I am for our freedom and for those who fought and continue to fight for it every single day. I love my country and I, for one, will always be proud to be an American.