philosophie.

"I like being American

This is taken from Hilary Hahn’s online journal.

Dear Readers,

I’m grateful to Barack Obama, or to the people who voted him into office.

I arrived in Paris from Japan a few hours ago, and the first thing said
to me on French soil was uttered by a border guard, a young man who lit
up when he saw my American passport. “Today is the day, eh!” This
confused me because I hadn’t expected him to speak English to me, I
couldn’t figure out why he was smiling broadly at me, I didn’t know
what day today was, and my train of thought was stuck somewhere around
“Bonjour”. Apparently, he didn’t know what day it was either. It turned
out he was referring to the inauguration, which is actually taking
place tomorrow. Same difference.

I then proceeded to a taxi. Once I’d stated my destination, the cabbie
asked me where I was from. When I replied, “the United States,” he
responded with an interested and almost perky, “Hmm.”

These may not seem significant, but to me, after eight years of rolled
eyes, groans, stony silences, and commented asides that have threatened
to lead into political discussions, all at the simple mention of being
American, this is a relief. I like being American. I have never claimed
to be anything else. Now everyone else seems to be ok with my
nationality, too. That feels good.

So, to whoever is responsible for this turn of events, thank you.

Hilary