Photo by Moises Gonzalez, Unsplash
Photo by Moises Gonzalez, Unsplash
If, for these things, I am my country's enemy then so be it.
Now that I have been labeled an enemy of my country, I thought I would take a long look in the mirror to see what I have done to earn this designation.
Though I am far from perfect in any of these things…
- I have dedicated a good portion of my life to helping others though sometimes I am selfish.
- I have tried my best – though not perfect by any means – to leave everyone I come in contact with feeling more expansive.
- I have kept my environment, including my neighborhood, friendly.
- I have picked up trash.
- I have volunteered to coach children and direct them in plays.
- I have helped my children to navigate this complex world and think for themselves.
- I have been a friend to those who have labeled me an enemy.
- I have not tried to take anyone’s guns, freedom of speech or rights away.
- I have had a wide array of friends and family who believe many different things and gotten along with them for the most part.
- I have watched lots of sports and rooted for my teams.
- I have admired artists and singers and dancers and speakers.
- I have donated a bit of money to causes that help others.
- I have encouraged our government, with my votes, to help the hungry, sick and lonely.
- I have voted for candidates who I felt truly respected all the people and did their best to make the country more communicative.
- I have tried to tell the truth.
- I have generally been on time.
- I have learned to do lots of things around the house.
- I have spent lots of money.
- I have had many canine best friends.
- I have backpacked into many tall mountains.
- I have written, acted, directed and produced at many levels.
- I have watched streaming shows and go to the movies.
- I have paid bills.
- I have danced in the living room.
- I have tried to verify the truth of what others are telling me.
- I have tried not to hurt others, but sometimes I fail.
- I have spoken out and been silent.
- I have found most people are pretty decent.
If, for these things, I am my country’s enemy then so be it.
Peter Kjenaas is an author, screenwriter, theater director, producer, chef, AirBnB host, parent and caregiver extraordinaire. And now he adds travel writer to his resumé as he sets off across the country in a 1971 VW camper bus. But first and foremost he is a caring and productive human who has graciously allowed us to post some of his writings to this site. See his latest book at PeterKjenaas.com, and his travel adventures at Riders on the Storm Bus.
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