Reflection Essay on God Bless The USA

Lee Greenwood’s song “God Bless The USA '' was released in 1984. Later that year it was played at a Republican National Convention with president Ronald Reagan, it was also a song played during the Gulf war and after 9/11. Greenwood said he wrote it because he thought we needed to be more united as a country, it was something he wanted to write his whole life. He wrote it when he was on the road touring. This piece is about someone who lives in America and the pride they have for their Country. It talks about how lucky he is to live in the USA and his pride for the country. The author's message shows the song's characters love for America, because in order to show this he says how lucky he is to live in America. The author's message shows his love for America, because in order to show this he says how lucky he is to live in America. I agree with Lee Greenwood's message about freedom in the USA because it is something I am grateful I have and experience everyday, however on the other hand I disagree with his message about pride in every American heart. 

I agree with this song to some degree, but I also disagree about some parts of it. Greenwood sings about being grateful for the freedom in our country “I'd thank my lucky stars To be livin' here today 'Cause the flag still stands for freedom”(Greenwood). I agree with the statement Greenwood makes about freedom in America and how lucky he is. The freedom in this country is very immense compared to other places. While complete freedom is something we have yet to reach, we have taken large steps in the right direction. Women's rights and freedom has changed drastically, back in the 1600’s and 1700’s women had very few rights, they couldn't own businesses or vote, however in the present day women have much more freedom. Greenwood’s lyrics state how blessed he is to live in America and how freedom is something he is proud his country has. I agree with the freedom in America, especially for women. Looking back on the past makes me realize just how lucky I am to have the privileges I have. Greenwood continues his song with how he would defend his country and how he and others love every part of this country “there's pride in every American heart”(Greenwood). I disagree with this statement. I think this generalization isn't accurate for everyone in America. While Greenwood claims that everyone living in America has pride for the country, I don't think that's true. While some people love America and do have pride for it, others do not. Some experience hardships in this country, leading them not to love this country or think highly of it. Some reasons for that could be experiencing racism, poverty or violence.  No matter the reason, many don't love this country due to the issues they experience everyday. These issues, among others, lead people to not have pride for the country, leading me to disagree with Greenwood's message. While some love America and others don't, Greenwoods love for America shines clear through this song.