Five years ago today, I became a naturalized citizen of the United States. On the one hand, it was the final stop of a thirty-plus-year journey, well documented by diplomas, visas and passports. On the other hand, it marked the beginning of a new life, free of legal restrictions.
In New York City, an international city largely populated with immigrants, oath ceremonies are held weekly at multiple locations. To the officiating staff, they are more routines than special events. Still the room was filled with joy and excitement.
We were each given a package with a pocket-size U.S. Constitution, a letter from the President, a little Stars & Stripes flag and passport application forms. Each one of us had an assigned seat—just to ensure that we would be given the correct documents. Family members of the candidates were led to the back of the room. Everyone was dressed up. Some in the traditional costumes of their countries of origin; some in their Sunday best. Informational and patriotic documentary films were playing on a big screen as we waited for the ceremony to begin. There was not much communication amongst the attendees since we were total strangers until that morning.
Following brief introductory announcements from the staff and a video message from the President, we sang the National Anthem. I teared up a little. Before the oath, countries of origin for the candidates were introduced as we stood up. If I remembered correctly, I was the only one from Taiwan on that day. A judge of the High Court addressed my group, recalling the history of her own immigrant family. She wished us bright futures in our new country.
According to Merriam-Webster, one of the definitions for “naturalization” is: Of a non-native plant or animal: the process of becoming or the state of being established in the wild so that growth and reproduction is possible without human intervention.” I believe that the same should be true for human beings finding new lives in a foreign land. Being documented and certified is only part of naturalization. Living independently, freely and productively should be the defining element. I became a U.S. citizen after having lived here for years. The long process helped me to fully adapt to life in this country. For me, taking oath was simply to acknowledge my intention of continuing the journey. I came out of the ceremony with a sense of relief. Under the blue sky and shinning sun, I went straight to the nearest post office and applied for my U.S. passport.