Countdown to July 4

There are just nine days until July 4. If you ever find yourself in another country or another culture like me, there is so much I can share on that subject.

However, the point is not that as an immigrant who has been in the United States of America for the past 15 years, I have the responsibility to say that this is a great country. Whether it is perfect or not, there is a lot to say about that. However, I have the blessing of growing up under a dictatorship; I have the blessing to know firsthand what it is not to have freedom of expression, religion, or any liberty in general.

I suffered firsthand. I saw my father and how much he endured pain and suffering in silence for not being able to be his true self.

As a result, I don't act naive. I don't take for granted the privilege that, even as an immigrant, I enjoy the freedom and authenticity that I can explore in a place like this for someone like me.

On the other hand, I am excited about the countdown to July 4. For once, July 3 is my birthday. Most importantly, this year marked the second anniversary of my memoir, "Born Again in America: A Nation Where Dreams Still Come True." More than a memoir, I found this book an open door to discovery—an open door to authenticity and pure freedom."

I extend a sincere invitation to embrace the authenticity, freedom, and privilege that you are fortunate to possess.