She didn't say, "I hate Bush," or "I hate the war in Iraq," or "I hate the election process," but instead: "I hate America."

America? Our one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all? Okay, maybe we're not there yet. Maybe America's still "working on" assuring everyone our inalienable rights.

Are we really so awful?
America, who spends more on foreign aid than any other country on this Earth? America, the nation of immigrants, which people flock to and even try to enter illegally just to become a part of it? America, which provides free education in an attempt to ensure that EVERY child has the chance to do better than his parents? America, which provides legal counsel to everyone to ensure that no one is jailed without a fair trial?America, which sure as hell ain't perfect, but is sure as hell trying?

When did it become OK to say, "I hate America"? It's always been OK, of course- that's the beauty of America. You can hate it all you like, you can sing it from the mountaintops and we'll just smile. But when did it get to the point that in a crowded room of bright, intelligent students, that no one would even question a girl saying, "I hate America!" ?

Aren't WE America? Students hurrying to class, single moms working two jobs, small business owners trying to get by, recent immigrants picking peaches to earn their way, college kids holding protests, workers striking for better wages, soldiers willing to give their lives at a moment's notice, clerks working at cash registers, wealthy CEO's playing golf, dirty politicians working on smear campaigns, and YES, even girls in English class saying, "I hate America!" Are we NOT America?

America is not just our government. Have we forgotten our government is decided by the people? We are America, fighting for our ideal of everoyne having an equal chance at life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Sure, we're not perfect-- name me a country that is!
I say to you, everyone who's ever said, "I hate America" - YOU are America, and so am I. If you don't like the direction the country is taking, you have the power to change it! That's what's great about our nation. Join a campaign for the candidate of your choice, join a group that's fighting for what you believe in. Or if you're just plain fed up, then leave! America needs people willing to WORK for change, not just sit around and complain.