Reply to President Obama's Letter

Dear Mr. President,

Thank you for your letter requesting my contribution to "build a new foundation for America".

What do you mean by building "a new foundation for America"? Not only do you have to explain to all what this new foundation is, but how does one go about building it. It certainly sounds like it will be quite a job, considering that building our wonderful country started before 1776.

I, for one, do not want a new America. I came to this country in 1961 at 18 years old with my mother and younger sister. We had no money or valuable possessions. My mother had lost her husband in the Cuban struggle, and she abandoned it all -- her family, friends, home, job and lifetime possessions, so that my sister and I could live in freedom.

To make this story short, the wonderful people that we met offered us love, friendship and guidance. We never knew discrimination. American private citizens, not the government, helped us with their friendship and support. We did not need nor want government handouts. We always paid our way.

I worked full time and attended college at night and got my degree in Economics. I applied for entry into an MBA program and was accepted by the University of Chicago. I never had a problem getting a job, getting into college, renting, buying a car, or anything else. My sister worked and studied hard and became a physician.

After a few years the three of us became American citizens. I love the America I have known up to now, with its freedom and opportunity. I do not want it changed. Thank you for your good intentions, but please, do not change America.

Sincerely,
Alicia

Letter from President Obama

I frequently visit the White House website just to be informed of what they're saying. On one of those occasions I must have provided my e-mail address. Since then I have received a couple of letters from the President. The text of the last one follows.

"The White House, Washington

Dear Friend,

Last week, I announced United We Serve – a nationwide call to service challenging you and all Americans to volunteer this summer and be part of building a new foundation for America.

And when I say “all,” I mean everyone – young and old, from every background, all across the country. We need individuals, community organizations, corporations, foundations, and our government to be part of this effort.

Today, for the official kick off of United We Serve, members of my administration have fanned out across America to participate in service events and encourage all Americans to join them.

The First Lady is rolling up her sleeves and getting to work too. But before she headed out today, she asked me to share this message with you. (Not included.)

Our nation faces some of the greatest challenges it has in generations and we know it’s going to take a lot of hard work to get us back on track.

While Michelle and I are calling on every American to participate in United We Serve, the call to service doesn’t end this fall. We need to stay involved in our towns and communities for a long time to come. After all, America’s new foundation will be built one neighborhood at a time – and that starts with you.

Thank you,
President Barack Obama