[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 146 (Saturday, October 8, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: October 8, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
    HAWAII'S VOICE OF DEMOCRACY WINNER AND HER COMMITMENT TO AMERICA

                                 ______


                         HON. NEIL ABERCROMBIE

                               of hawaii

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 7, 1994

  Mr. AMBERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following essay entitled 
``My Commitment to America'' written by Anna Gavieres for the 
Congressional Record.
  Anna graduated from Maryknoll High School in Honolulu and was the 
State of Hawaii's winner in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of 
Democracy Scholarship Program. In her speech, she discusses the 
importance of a commitment to our great country and stresses the need 
for people her age to embrace with responsibility the challenges 
presented in contemporary society. She encourages others to make a 
difference in the community by fighting the problems of our country 
with courage and faith.
  I am always proud to hear about students like Anna in Hawaii who are 
so devoted to the cause of democracy and the betterment of our Nation. 
Thank you for your assistance in recognizing Anna's accomplishment. I 
appreciate your willingness to include this in the Record.
       Living in today's society is not easy, especially from a 
     high school graduate's standpoint. Now seventeen, I am being 
     confronted by the adult world. College and the life beyond 
     will demand much more than has ever been asked of me before.
       As the world opens up for me, I must reflect on where I am, 
     so I can identify my goals and find out where I am headed. 
     College and career choices are only a small part of analyzing 
     where I fit in this world and what I can contribute. What 
     exactly do I see as my commitment to America?
       Venturing into the real world for the first time can be 
     painful and disillusioning. Our generation becomes confused 
     by the many issues we must confront: abortion, drug use, 
     homelessness, racism. The question that develops in the young 
     person's mind is: What can I do to make a difference?
       Each individual has the potential to change the world. My 
     commitment to myself, to America, is to reach inside and 
     unlock that potential. Many of us shy away from the phrase 
     ``change the world,'' thinking it's too ambitious for one to 
     consider alone. What we must realize is that changing the 
     world begins with one person becoming strong and recognizing 
     his or her capability to build up society. Just as Michael 
     Jackson sings, ``I'm starting with the man in the mirror,'' 
     so, too, must everyone who has hope for a brighter American 
     future. Change does not begin with new governments, or new 
     laws. Lasting change cannot be implemented from top to 
     bottom; it can only begin in the hearts and minds of the 
     American people. Yet, changes made only begrudingly, or what 
     is worse, indifferently, can mean nothing. Any contribution 
     meant to inspire true and lasting change in another person or 
     institution, must be given with pure intention. This 
     conviction can only be achieved through self analysis and 
     conscious dedication to the betterment of society.
       Contributions can be big or small, difficult or effortless. 
     Even the circle of racism can be broken when the child of a 
     prejudiced parent is simply aware of different cultures, and 
     responds, not with fear, but acceptance and love. Of course, 
     racism will not end overnight. But the potential of its end 
     shown every time a circle like this is broken, radiates the 
     hope necessary to keep dreams of worldwide harmony alive.
       There is a saying that goes, ``A chain is only as strong as 
     its weakest link.'' That can also be said of America. Much 
     that has gone wrong in society has come about through the 
     collapse of the value system. A large number of recent 
     generations have been products of broken homes: children 
     raised, thinking that no one cares for them, and they don't 
     need to care for anyone, or anything. They go through life 
     without any real understanding of responsibility. The many 
     unwed mothers of this country make up only one example. We 
     must acknowledge this shortcoming and dedicate future 
     generations to strengthening the family, and bringing back 
     real and lasting love to human relationships.
       If I realize my potential as best I can, I become a Pillar 
     of my Community: supporting a society in its ideal. As more 
     people tap into the vast gifts and talents they have and 
     begin to share them with others, a foundation will begin to 
     grow and cultivate a society that is able to flourish above 
     the violence and fear and ignorance that are so rampant in 
     society today. My commitment to America begins in me, in my 
     home, in my relationships with my family and friends. In the 
     seeds one plants every day, through words and deeds, so much 
     good can be reaped. Yet, one also has a great potential for 
     evil. It is left for the individual to choose. Every moment 
     brings yet another decision between right and wrong. One must 
     realize one's potential for evil and consciously reject it. 
     This is not to say there is no room for human frailty, but 
     one must be strong. One must always have faith. With a 
     healthy mind, a pure heart, and strong conviction, there is 
     nothing that one cannot do.

                          ____________________