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