I undertook this endeavor to look at the past, present, and promise of citizenship. Using examples from my ancestors, my life, and my future hope, I want to encourage citizenship and its pursuit.

Join me in seeking a greater awareness of the conditions that prompted German immigration, life in America for those immigrants, and the contributions they made as they assimilated. I include some Iowa and Dubuque history as well as moments from my childhood and young adulthood.

The present state of our nation is examined, having drifted from its founding principles. Political ideas and agencies are defined to gain increased understanding. Also included is an important chapter on liberty, followed by a section designed to present the opportunity to be individuals and citizens of excellence.

The recent problems of immigration and open borders are explored, along with acquired citizenship. Finally, the biblical idea of being a citizen of heaven is explained to encourage the Christian with this God-given promise. My goal is to help readers develop a greater appreciation for citizenship and pursue it if not currently a United States citizen.

BRUCE A. WEITZ has been a FedEx Express courier for over thirty years. He and his wife, Crystal, have two grown, married children. They reside in Ankeny, Iowa. Bruce enjoys reading, watching sports, traveling, yard work, and backyard birds and blooms.