Generally, I do not touch on political themes simply because I have enormous respect for different viewpoints, and I always try to seek knowledge and information to make my own decisions. This reflection has no political intent; it is merely a broad perspective from a citizen who loves the world we live in.
However, we are living through intense and decisive moments in the world. Strong feelings are surfacing in every corner of the earth, both in the west and the east. And every day the media bombards us with alerts and updates on so many important and critical topics that are unfolding with incredible speed. Reflecting on citizenship and patriotism with all their definitions, it becomes inevitable not to notice and think that both should always be together, since one complements the other in terms of affinity and tuning.
A simplified definition is that “citizenship is the exercise of your rights and duties and patriotism is the feeling you have in relation to your homeland.” Remembering that being a patriot does not mean that you agree with the type of government in power, but rather love for your land of origin or your country of choice. Many end up leaving their country and venture to immigrate to others for various reasons. Still, it is important that as children of the same homeland, regardless of all our differences and diversity, our admiration, respect, and sense of unity connect us in a unique and valuable way. A union for a common love.
We are indeed different from one another due to our dreams, purposes, and personal projects that make us unique individuals. And it is in this vessel of dreams and personal projects that we embark far from our country of origin. Physically far, because in a very special and unique way, distance is incapable of separating feelings and erasing the good experiences lived that accompany us in our baggage and never get left behind. In my case, being a citizen of two extraordinary countries with such different cultures from language to stunning natural wonders, and yet, even with so many distinctions, they face different problems with some similar difficulties. Brazilian by origin and American by citizenship, I closely follow the turbulent waters that both of my countries navigate. I often mention to some close friends that, having survived the largest terrorist attack on American soil, and seeing the collapse of the Twin Towers over my own body, it was as if a part of me had died and something was born that day in that place.
Something difficult to explain in a few words, this unique and impactful experience, which started from a feeling and became a sentiment. Regardless of how to describe this feeling, I feel honored by this special and unique connection. I must admit that I have come to see the world through a broader and more comprehensive perspective in many ways.
Seeing North and South America united in me is almost like seeing the western and eastern worlds united on Earth, separated only by water, as astronauts must observe from the Space Station. However, having survived so many adverse circumstances, fate has shown me both negative and positive personal emotions and experiences that cannot deny the immense love, affection, and respect I have for the country I live in. Over time, the decision to become a citizen flowed naturally with the blossoming of these feelings. May everyone feel this special sentiment with the countries they choose and manage to unite the present with the past as a whole to soften any sense of rupture. It is an incredible feeling; it is undoubtedly an honor.
So, let it not be necessary to wait for the right moment for our attitude 
to simply react as a simple process of action and reaction in the face of current events. But let our patriotism be demonstrated as that unique and special love we have for our homeland, every day that passes and in the small details. Let it not be necessary to realize that we need some healing, but the importance of keeping our checkups always updated. Like a reciprocal and still corresponded love, preserving and maintaining this relationship is as important as having it. May we be more vigilant and open to opinions and updates for the common good of the homeland and with our compatriots. We do not need to agree with any politician to be or demonstrate our patriotism.
Therefore, regardless of the situation and personal reasons that lead or do not lead a person to obtain dual citizenship, or still maintain pride in their homeland of origin, may it be with love, respect, pride, and honor always. Embrace the new homeland that welcomed you with the same honor and love.
So I conclude with a famous quote from an illustrious doctor who went through many situations and still had the energy to inspire changes for us to reflect: “What worries me is not the cry of the corrupt, the violent, the dishonest, the without character, the without ethics… What worries me is the silence of the good.” – Martin Luther King
Always smile at the world with faith in your heart.
ADRIANA MALUENDAS
Author & Writer
www.alemdasexplosoes.com.br