I am an Amer-I-can

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.

~Donald Ault