The Boston Marathon

I'm not always proud to be an American. Although I work my butt off for the opportunity to represent the United States, there have always been parts I'm not sure I want to represent.

Days like Monday remind me that the good parts of being an American far outweigh the bad. I don't always agree with my fellow countrymen on matters of politics, economics or religion. But Monday has reminded me that, at our heart, we are a good, compassionate people. From the Bostonians offering food, clothing and shelter, to the Americans around the nation offering words of hope, wisdom and reflection, we are a strong, united community.

This Patriot's Day, I think I may have finally become a Patriot: not afraid in the wake of an isolated incident, but part of that great American community.