When I think about freedom, I think about possibilities. Freedom means that I can decide what kind of future I want. I can study hard, play sports, and choose hobbies that make me happy. These choices may seem small, but they are all part of living in a country where people are free. Freedom also means fairness. Everyone has the right to be treated equally no matter what they look like, what they believe, or where they come from. I like knowing that I can be myself without worrying that my ideas will be ignored just because I am different.

Like millions of others, I am grateful to have been granted with American citizenship by birth. Citizenship is granted to everyone born within the territory of the United States. Yet I wish to recognize the hundreds of thousands of people each year who leave their countries in search of a life filled with opportunity and hope. I was fortunate to be a birthright citizen. My parents, unlike me, sacrificed everything to leave their home in Eastern Europe (the former USSR).

The freedom of religion has been argued over for many centuries, though we are lucky that our American Constitution allows many freedoms, such as the freedom of religion. This freedom allows people to see that everybody is different, and everybody should still be treated the same way. First, looking back in time, the Jews have been seeking out for somewhere to live in peace. Thankfully, when Nazis took over Europe, Jews moved to America because it was safe for them to live, all thanks to the freedom of religion.

As a nation that has shaped its ethics, policies, and principles on the idea of freedom, it is essential to think about the importance of living in a place where one is able to speak their mind and truth without being punished or prosecuted. While all freedoms are important, the idea of the freedom to speak is something that should be noticed and respected. Adopted in 1791, freedom of speech was a part of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, stating that congress shall make no law "bridging the freedom of speech".

Abraham Lincoln once said, "The ballot is stronger than the bullet." Although the strength of voting is commonly overlooked, it is truly one of the most powerful rights out there. Here in America, whether it is a small or large election, everyone's voice matters. The right to vote gives us, the citizens of the United States, an opportunity to choose the leaders of this country. I've always taken a keen interest in politics and elections.