An early morning wake-up call told me the Grand Day had arrived! After some very early preparations and the fulfillment of some key responsibilities in my schedule I was ready to attend the Naturalization Ceremony to be held at the U.S. Federal Court House in Philadelphia, within sight of central and meaningful symbols of the values that sustain the United States of America: Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was adopted, Articles of Confederation were ratified, and the Constitution was written and signed; and the Liberty Bell — a special symbol of American freedom for over 200 years.

October 17, which is traditionally a most significant day for me because of the anniversary celebration of the creation of the Sabian Assembly, my philosophy enterprise of reference, obtained an added relevance in 2002 as the day I expanded my citizenship to this magnificent country. 96 of us, representing 37 countries became the newest American citizens after due pomp and circumstance and the administration of the Oath of Allegiance in the presence of several representatives of the U.S. Government, family and friends.

I treasure the invitation from the Honorable John R. Padova, U.S. District Court Judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, presiding at the Ceremony, “… to bring to this country the best of our cultures, to be mindful of making contributions from our countries of birth….” In my case, this speaks of bringing the wealth of love and care that characterize my native México. It also speaks about sharing my multi-national and multi-cultural experiences that lead to effective relationships, co-operation and unity. With this commitment in mind I have acquired a new sense of expanded personal and social responsibility that I plan to fulfill to the best of my understanding for the rest of my life.

What does it mean for me to become a citizen of the United States?

I commit to share the best of me and my upbringing with all those I meet in this country of ours. I shall lift the turmoil of the day to greater harmony in all situations. I shall share the best of me in my personal and professional life as I hearken to the voice of higher values.

As Judge Padova said, “… all cultures are integrating and this process resolves in better living and opportunities for all…” I envision a world in which we live at peace within ourselves and with all other people inside and outside our country of citizenship. I envision a world where respect for each other prevails. And that is the world in which I strive to live and share!

Wondrous memories from this unique event in my life will inspire me in the years to come: An early gathering with my Sabian colleagues, a special Muslim ritual from my Iranian friend before we left her home to attend the Ceremony, the great expectation as we drove to the U.S. Federal Court House, the initial preparations and signing of the Certificate of Naturalization, the enthusiastic speeches from the U.S. Government representatives and a citizen from Venezuela who also acquired her rights and responsibilities to the nation of her own choice, the administration of the Oath of Allegiance, tears of happiness afterwards, hugs and kisses, photos, the reception and music immediately following the ceremony, walking around the streets of Philadelphia and my American friend announcing to all we met I had just become an American citizen, smiles and congratulations from many people, an outdoors luncheon celebration, a movie related with Greek culture, bouquets of fragrant roses, phone calls from family in England, the United States and México, emails filled with warmth, greetings cards with cakes and candles and stars and stripes representing the United States of America, and love in abundance from all those who are part of my beloved inner circle.

I am truly delighted to be embraced by this beautiful nation of the people, by the people and for the people.

¡Vivan los Estados Unidos de América!