It was 1994 when I became an American citizen, more than 35 years after moving here as a child. My wife and two kids, all American born, were at the swearing-in ceremony with me. My main reasons were to get through the immigration line quicker at the airport and to be able to vote before my son did (not that we disagreed). The passport was a convenience but I was surprised, even overwhelmed, when I stood in the voting booth for the first time in my life and voted. After all those years I had a voice. And I won’t ever forget it. Enjoy the 4th of July, whoever, wherever you are, and don’t ever forget to vote!

Tagged as: culture, flags, travel photography, usa