What happened to being proud to be an American?

For the older generations, this slogan remains true to heart, but with the ability to express political opinions on social media and a lower amount of millennials entering the service, the concept of American pride and nationalism seems lost.

To name a few ways, it is lost amidst political unrest, the cry for equal rights, and capitalism.

With the controversial candidates in the 2016 presidential race, the gender gap, and the money-driven mindset of Americans; many Americans feel hopeless for the future.

But let’s take a step back for a minute and remember that we are the greatest country in the world.

We have freedom. Not just freedom of expression or freedom of the press, but unlimited freedom. We can say “I hate Trump” or “I hate Obama” and that’s perfectly acceptable.

Not to mention that people every hour of every day are protecting us. They dedicate their lives so we can feel safe. How can we forget that the only reason we live is because of the sacrifices of others?

It may seem easy to forget these people when we’re looking towards a potential future with Trump as president. But we are forgetting there is equal opportunity. If you are unsatisfied with the candidates, why don’t you run? Stop complaining that you are hopeless when you can do something about it. If you’re not old enough to run yourself, then join groups to make your voice be heard because trust me, your 400 Facebook friends are probably sick of your constant rants, but continue to fight for what you want.

The mentality of improvement is a major element of this country. In 1920, when women got the right to vote, they didn’t stop there. They continue to fight for equal rights 96 years later. While it may seem unfair that women earn less than men, we have the ability to change our future and earn the rights we deserve due to freedom alone.

While some people work to live, Americans live to work. This mentality creates high stress for some, but it is worth the reward of personal success. The American work ethic is a major reason to be proud of who we are, as we continue to make an impact on the future.

Of course, we are not perfect. But who is? Even the happiest countries on earth have issues, but here, we not only have the ability to make a change, we are the change.

While we definitely have a long way to go for every person to be happy, I believe rediscovering national pride may lead more people to be happy. After all, we are the land of the free and the home of the brave; so let's start acting like it again. It's time to re-appreciate everything people do for us and the freedom we possess.

I am proud to be an American and I hope you are too.