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 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, if I'll let you drag me

down so that we may be equal.



D. Ault