A warm welcome to new Americans

On a day known for its celebration of America's Independence, the Fourth of July, 21 immigrants from 14 countries became citizens of the greatest country on Earth. Arena Park was the setting where they recited the Oath of Allegiance and joined the American family after years of anticipation.

Featured speaker Judge Duane Benton was honored to participate in the naturalization ceremony and remarked that he wished all of Cape Girardeau could be there. Actually, it would be perfect if every American could attend such a solemn occasion. When we hear stories of people who love the country enough to restart their lives here, doesn't it remind us just how fortunate we are to be Americans?

"It reignites and reinvigorates you as an American to see what these people have been through, what they've done," said Benton, as quoted in a recent Southeast Missourian article. He implored the new citizens not to forget what they felt that day. "Keep your hearts afire with a burning desire for liberty," he said, "like the [country's] early founders and today's service members, who say, 'Give me liberty or give me death.'" We would all do well to take his advice.

You get the distinct impression that these new citizens, from the continents of Africa, Asia, North America and Europe, will cherish this moment forever. One does not easily forget the happiest day of his life. It is not likely that the one who dreamed of this day since the 1970s will take for granted that his dream has come true.

"Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free," quotes Lady Liberty. With a vow of allegiance to America, our 21 new brothers and sisters expressed gratitude for that invitation, gladly accepting. We join the nation in welcoming them.