Chances are, you love where you live. Or at least, you love some parts about it. What do you love about your country?
There are many general areas that someone could find appealing about the nation where they reside. For example, natural beauty, which might include a spectacular waterfall, a majestic forest, or stunning lakes (among others).
Security is yet another thing that might set one country apart from another. Do you feel safe, from both your fellow citizens as well as from other countries?
One thing that can vary drastically from place to place is political climate. Do you like yours? Why or why not? Do you feel represented in government? Do you feel free?
Listen to a podcast where Michael and Lee discuss a related question: ‘Freedom or security?’ We also discuss a bonus question: ‘Is technology neutral?’
Or perhaps you like the people all around you. What are some of the traits of people that are among the best? Generosity, an accepting nature, thoughtfulness, honesty?
Another option is opportunity, which includes literacy, education, jobs, housing, health care, and others. Are opportunities available to you where you live?
There are many other possibilities as well. What is it that you like best about your country?
Related questions: If you could live anywhere, where would it be? What is patriotic behavior? Why do you live where you live? Are you free?
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
While each branch of government has, quite often and significantly, violated the letter or spirit of the First Amendment (especially for BIPOC communities, immigrants, and the poor), America is pretty exceptional to have enshrined in our Constitution these rights and protections as well as checks on government overreach.
The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights aren’t perfect (the 3/5ths compromise comes immediately to mind, for example) but they are a remarkable set of documents.
My answer is the natural beauty. I live in the USA, which is home to some pretty incredible natural sights and wonders.
In the US, the variation in ecosystems is remarkable. I suppose that’s bound to happen with a country of our size, but it is stunning to me, nonetheless. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to travel across the state of Oregon, for example, and I think I passed through four distinct types of environments, each one beautiful in its own way.
I have not traveled everywhere in the US, including some of the most beautiful parts (Hawaii being one notable example). But what I have seen has been remarkable.
It’s also pretty great that some much of that land and beauty has been set aside for conservation. The National Parks system in our country is something to be extremely proud of.
Being a citizen gives me a lot of protections and comforts like being part of a large family. This is also true of being a citizen of my state.