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Appreciation

Editor:

I am a WWII veteran, widowed and childless, 84 years old (born on July 4, 1927), jobless and live on a monthly Social Security Income of $854 and almost half of which goes to my apartment rental. Moreover, I can neither work nor volunteer in any service, because of an allergy: frequent coughing and sneezing.

Consequently, last year I decided to go back to the Philippines. In the process, I gave to some friends and relatives my things: the laptop, typewriter, kitchen utensils, etc. The rest and especially books, magazine and letters went to the trash when suddenly I found among them my old piece, "America, A Paradigm." A gem among the trash, it was one of my few pieces I wrote here in 1997.

While I regret so much not being able to contribute my services to the community, having written the aforementioned piece has somehow assuaged that empty feeling.

I hope that you will be able to print "America, A Paradigm" if you fi nd it worthy. Thank you!

— (Mrs.) Legiaya V. Yuzon

America, A Paradigm

Fortunate am I to be a citizen of America. Land of the brave and of the free Bulwark of democracy

Glad am I to share her riches with all who are here by destiny Varied her people are in religion, creed or race Indeed there is beauty in variety Like this land's wondrous topography So let us work in harmony Let there be unity in diversity.

Needless to censure others' faults or frailties Maybe amends I will, when I can: Do good and be at peace with all: Harken to the departed martyrs' and heroes' Reverberating strains of their ideal and dreams.

Despite our variant colors, my fellow Americans, We are one — with the same red blood Flowing in our veins — one heart, one soul.

Then as a citizen I will keep my vow to: — think of all this lofty and noble: — speak words of wisdom to assuage dissensions — protect the country's fl ora and fauna for the present and future generations: — uphold and respect the Constitution and — be a law-abiding citizen, supporting the Nation under God, in her/his quest for peace even in foreign climes.

Thus the world will rejoice and look up to the great leader The United States of America — A Paradigm!