I am an American.

I owe you no apologies nor will I accept

those apologies made for me by others.

If you dislike me, you dislike me not for what I am, but for what you are not. By my own sweat I have created a lifestyle

which I desire for all men.

To the world I have shared my wealth and

given my blood, not because of obligation,

but by my free will. I have fed the hungry of the world…

Many have bit my hand;

I used the other hand.

I defeated my enemies in battle, then pulled them up from

the ashes of defeat. Once strong , they again attacked;

I turned the other cheek.

Though I am strong, I have never used my strength

to rule others. But do not misjudge me, I will not allow the fear of my own strength to become my weakness.

If you wish to rise, I will give you a helping hand…

But by the grace of God, and I’ll first be damned,

will I let you drag me down so that we may be equal.

D. Ault