2007 Winner, Ben Groselak

"Immigration To Our Great Nation"

 By Ben Groselak

 SS. Cyril & Methodius Parish and School

 Lemont, Illinois

A lot of people from far and wide,

come to America with nothing to hide.

A new life to start…

an American citizen…a dream in their heart.

Imagine the strife of traveling so far,

aboard a boat, a train or even a car.

Leaving your homeland, what a decision…

to come to a strange country of mixed composition.

Immigration has made a great nation…

new ideas, languages, cultures and creations.

All our lives have been touched by the blending,

the music, the foods, the inventions…by immigrants ascending.

What do they hope for? Why do they come?

They come for religious choice, to join their family…

they come to have a voice.

Most of all, however, they come for freedom.

How lucky am I to live in this land that is free!

How fortunate am I to know that I don’t have to leave!

I am blessed to be here…and I am extremely proud to say…

“America is just where I plan to stay!”