The word "proud", to me, implies that to some degree I own or am responsible for what's to be proud of. While I am happy (for the most part) to be associated with the entity, The United States, I can't claim authorship or responsibility for the good parts, and I'd like to disassociate myself from what I consider the bad parts. At least, I'm forward to say that I don't think I've added to the bad parts.

Another possible reading of "proud to be a citizen" would be that I arrived at that state by effort, striving, and merit. I didn't. I got it as a free gift. So I can't very well be "proud" of it in that way.

I like Azizi's distinction, and I will tell the world I admire much of the historical achievements of the nation I think of as "American". I try not to think too much about the parts that I don't admire.

If this sounds equivocal or lukewarm, so be it. If the last sentence of the previous paragraph sounds like a lazy citizen, I suppose that may be true too.

Dave Oesterreich