For all the problems that we are facing in this nation, I insist on loving her. I came to the United States in my teens--the possibilities not clearly marked--there was sadness and growing up to finish. And growing through. Learning a profession and then another. Being uncertain I could do anything well. This big place offered so many ways to think about the world, in small towns as well as in cities like New York, wildly rich with new ideas. Americans from all parts of the world rubbed against each other and created something new.
I love your collection and your birthday greeting to USA. Thanks Marlena for this thoughtful and upbeat reflection. Let’s wear red white and blue and remember how lucky we are.
Jackie, I started by writing about the good things--and the many problems and faults and lacks--and I just couldn't stand it. Felt all of that needed a rest. I also feel truly indebted to the United States. I love the principles on which it was founded, even though the reality has often been brutal. Feliz Cumpleaños. I insist. Te quiero mucho Estados Unidos de América!
Have I had more possibilities having been born in the US? It's almost impossible to imagine how it would feel to be from anywhere else. Yet I feel shaped and molded (just as much?) by the expectations of this country (and my sex, class, religion and race), but I imagine my perceived choices may have been much more narrow had I been born somewhere else. But perhaps the choice to immigrate is one of the great open-ended decisions a person can make... a choice I have never considered in my narrow worldview
There have been studies I've come across but didn't keep track of that raised the question /suggested answers as to why a member of a family might chose to immigrate versus others in a family, a personality trait of sorts. Let's talk about this sometime.
I loved the mini soliloquy and will pay attention to the titles 😘
Travel outside US makes me more aware of my great good fortune in living here. Thanks for emphasizing the positive.
beautiful! I love your jumping off the high trampoline!!
I agree with everything you said.
I love your collection and your birthday greeting to USA. Thanks Marlena for this thoughtful and upbeat reflection. Let’s wear red white and blue and remember how lucky we are.
Jackie, I started by writing about the good things--and the many problems and faults and lacks--and I just couldn't stand it. Felt all of that needed a rest. I also feel truly indebted to the United States. I love the principles on which it was founded, even though the reality has often been brutal. Feliz Cumpleaños. I insist. Te quiero mucho Estados Unidos de América!
I love your photos of books on the floor!
❤️
Have I had more possibilities having been born in the US? It's almost impossible to imagine how it would feel to be from anywhere else. Yet I feel shaped and molded (just as much?) by the expectations of this country (and my sex, class, religion and race), but I imagine my perceived choices may have been much more narrow had I been born somewhere else. But perhaps the choice to immigrate is one of the great open-ended decisions a person can make... a choice I have never considered in my narrow worldview
There have been studies I've come across but didn't keep track of that raised the question /suggested answers as to why a member of a family might chose to immigrate versus others in a family, a personality trait of sorts. Let's talk about this sometime.
Yes, let’s talk about this. I’m endlessly curious about tjis. Need to deep dive into studies.