Reflections On America Today

This 4th Of July, Is Like No Other In My Memory

“All The Knives Are Out” — Image by Author

I went walking with my camera this morning, as I do every morning. This morning felt different. I could not help thinking about America, about what it means to be an American these days.

It’s the 4th of July, a day normally spent honoring the Independence of America. A day charged with patriotism, flag waving, and fireworks. A day celebrating America’s freedom. I found no reason for such celebration this morning.

This Independence Day I am grateful to be 1600 miles away from the U.S border. America is no longer the same country I was born in, the same country I was raised in, the same country I lived in, until recently.

“Clear Dividing Lines” — Image by Author

I feel like I had my first taste of real freedom that day in early January of 2017, when I left America for the first time. I spent the next three months living on the island of Oahu.

Yes, Oahu is one of the islands that comprise Hawaii. And yes, Hawaii is part of the United States. Yet Hawaii feels different. The native Hawaiian culture is more predominate than the American culture. The difference is palpable.