It used to be that being a citizen was beneficial. Nowadays, when a citizen and a noncitizen (especially if they're considered a so-called " pers0n 0f C0L0R " ) are both charged with the same crime, you'd best believe it won't be the citizen who is given preferential treatment by the courts.
@linsees. Totally agree! Am so glad he became an American, and am happy he has duel citizenship! We are so proud of him, Thank him for his courage, and insights, and we do applaud his accomplishments! We look forward to his future accomplishments, and his reflections, we are soooooo fortunate he chose us!!
There was a quote that I remember seeing a while ago. “You can move to France, but you won’t become French. You can move to Germany, but you won’t become German. But when you move here, you become an American.” Congrats on the citizenship🥳🇺🇸
That’s the beauty of a national identity instead of a racial identity. As long as you respect and hold our values and wish to be a genuine part of this country, we welcome you with open arms 🇺🇸
Am I the only one who loves hearing "Welcome home"? I'm a US citizen by birth and it still makes me so happy to hear it like 'yes! yes I'm so happy to be home, thank you!'
I so enjoyed this video. I don't believe I've ever heard someone who has become a UScitizen actually express how they feel about becoming one of us. It's actually humbling to hear you describe how differently it has made you feel. Thank you, and by all means, welcome to the family.
Yes, I think the only folks I have seen discuss this were already extra famous celebrities like John Oliver. Nice to see a creator who is someone not as New York "glamorous" give a more in depth dive
You need to spend some more time with new immigrants to the US. It is a humbling experience. It really makes you appreciate what you have by accident of birth.
Im from Peru my husband from Brazil and became Us citizen a few years ago. We love our countries but the US has giving us so many opportunities. We couldn’t be more grateful to this country. Congrats on your citizenship 🇺🇸
Here's my fun US passport story: when you take the highschool SAT test you have to show ID. Most kids showed a school ID, driver's license, or learner's permit. I was young and homeschooled the first time I took it. I had neither. However, thanks to a Bahamas cruise, I had a passport. Only kid the lady had ever seen checking in to take the SAT with a passport.
Well earned citizenship for someone who adds greatly to our culture and society. His videos make me proud to be American in ways I hadn't yet thought of.
My grandmother came to The US over 100 years ago, through Ellis Island as a young girl ( by herself) and became a naturalized citizen before women were granted the right to vote. The pride she had about being an American and impressing upon her daughters and granddaughters the privileges we have now always stuck with me. I see that same look in your eyes about being American . Thank you for helping me remember Grandma Mary.
Similar story with my grandfather. A railroad paid his way here providing he worked for them for some number of years. You could argue as to whether that was a fair deal from the railroad but to my grandfather it was a chance at a life he could never have if he stayed where he was. He fought in the US Army during the first world war and he was always proud to be an American.
Both my parents were 1st Gen Americans. All four of my grandparents came over when they were young people, and became citizens. All worked very hard and made a good life. And were thankful every single day. My Italian grandparents insisted that we speak English, because "We are American!" And proud to be.
I’m so used to people taking the worst possible things about America, from foreigners or Americans, that it’s kinda depressing and demoralizing. Finding the one video a year where someone is actually remotely positive is so refreshing. Thank you. I haven’t even watched the video yet but it’s already proved helpful.
@@BlakeFaeMortonwell Im American and about half the country is xenophobic...but he's white so you are all okay with it, right? Some of the comments on this prove it. I hate this country and would rather live in Europe, but I'm chronically ill w so much debt because nothing is covered under insurance and Medicare is so expensive. I'm in global groups for my disease and can't get over how other countries take care of the chronically ill/disabled, we function like a third world country.
@@BlakeFaeMorton because you were stating you don't like when people call America xenophobic, they are just stating facts and I hate living with such racist hateful ignorant people...we have a far right movement that has now even influenced the ccrazies around the world. Nazi Germany is repeating itself right here in America. We truly are the dumbest country in the world and don't understand why anyone from Europe, Canada, Australia, etc would ever want to give up their strong social programs and overall sanity to live here.
When my brother went to the Caribbean for my wedding, and he came back through customs, they asked him "what is this.?" And he said "5 lb of Dominican coffee, ground and wrapped up in paper and string." They said "welcome home" and stamped his passport. He was so happy!
I've never been told "Welcome Home" when entering America. In fact, America is the only country which gives me a nasty reception when I try to enter. And yes, I'm an American citizen.
@@bigscarysteve-- I've always been wished "Welcome Home" by ICE agents at U.S. airports... but never when making a land border crossing from Canada or Mexico. Perhaps that has been your experience. For some reason that defies explanation, the "nice ICE" agents are employed at airports, and the surly agents who have hemorrhoids are posted to our land borders. I wish it wasn't that way.
@@ojyochan legal* immigrants I’m sure. I’m sure illegals do to, though, otherwise they wouldn’t want to come here. Shoot, they get more benefits than American citizens at this point
You can tell he is a citizen because he has already picked up the incorrect notion that he is "American". America has multiple continents N, S and Central with many countries full of citizens who are all technically "American".
@@nerfherder4284Yes. It does seem to be a long- established custom to refer to citizens of the US as Americans. I try to refer to the US, rather than America in writing, which can sound stilted when spoken. I wonder when America became the common appellation? Could it have been prior to the establishment of all the individual countries of the continents as separable entities? That would make sense. There is something else, a connotation rather than a denotation. "America" has the ring of "Liberty" and of "Opportunity" about it; "The United States" has the ring of power and legalism, hegemony and dominance about it. Just how my ears hear it.
I'm a daughter and granddaughter of Wales. I know my father and his dad loved being Americans -- just as you described your joy at being a citizen now.
It's always nice to hear something good about the US. So many people overseas seem to think that it's just awful here. Keep the positive videos coming!
not many people overseas think America is awful. I have gone to 15 plus different countries and never did I hear a single bad thing about America. Some Americans hate our country and they have never gone to another country. My personal opinion is some Americans are just so filled with hate they project hate where there is none.
@@Pathless168I think it’s more of a online internet hate which is ironic cause the internet was invented in America LOL 😂. Anyway In real life I have heard plenty of people who say positive things about America and if you look at international pew image polls the US is received more favourably than negative
@@Pathless168Ehh, there are plenty of people- even a majority, depending on where you go- who think ill of the US, but now it’s more like they’re laughing at us…
Let's keep things in perspective: anyone in a developing country and/or politically unstable region would move Heaven and earth to migrate their families to the US. The rest of the developed world has valid criticisms of the US, but only the spoiled and entitled characterize it as a *bad* place to live.
Love having you as a citizen! Please when you vote show us a pic of you with stickers all over your face with a flag in one hand and a sparkler in the other!
Glad your dream has come true in becoming a citizen. We have friends from Columbia attempting to become citizens. She just passed her exam and is awaiting the swearing in ceremony.
Congrats to her! If the voting registration people aren’t at the swearing-in ceremony, swing by the elections office in celebration and get her registered to vote.
I am a new citizen myself! So happy and proud about it. I could relate so much to what you said. I would also add that when I see military personnel now I have a new sense of pride and gratitude for their service to MY country.
I have been watching the British sense of humor (or is it humour) for at least 45 years, and it has not brought me as much comic relief from our times as you on this channel. I really love to hear your take about being "Lost in the Pond". You are great on this channel. And "Welcome" as a new American.
Hi Lawrence, congratulations on becoming a US citizen! I know exactly how you feel about being a newly “minted” American, I also dreamed of coming to US when I was quite young, my dream came true and one of the happiest days of my life was the day I was sworn in as an American citizen. Now that you’re able to vote, do your research and vote for people who love this country.
Very wise to inform of how to vote. Most just jump on team Red or Blue and dont care, are too dumb, or too brainwashed to understand who they're voting for.
Yes definitely do your research and vote for those who actually love this country and this democracy and not for those who say they love it but their actions don't show it. Welcome to being a citizen. Those were 7 really good reasons.
@@josephdunn3757 It would depend. The action of your children do not necessarily say anything about you. I was talking about politicians. You have to look into their voting in congress, the bills they have supported or brought forward. Don't just listen to what they say. Look into whether they do things that benefit the constituents they are supposed to represent.
No one you can vote for loves this country as both parties are corrupt to their core. There is only voting for the lesser evil. Which isn't any different really from voting in the UK. But spoiler alert, the more they talk about loving the country the bigger clue it is that they're trying to play on your emotions to cover their own corruption.
Ooo, Laurence, I remember well when you let us, your loving fans, know that you are a US citizen. I teared up a bit, SO happy for you & Tarah, & of course Uncle Toby. I am an auld lady (in far off Southern California) & your videos bring me such joy. From one fellow American to another, I respectfully request more Kafka in your videos. Sorry, sorry, I just love cats, & K is SO sweet. Please hug Tarah from me.
One of the most impacful event I ever attended was the swearing in ceremony for New American citizens. Being born in the USA, I never had my citizenship questioned. Being able to welcome new citizens to my country was the most honorable and proud moment of my life at the time. As new citizens they give up their previous life to start anew in my country. Welcome to the USA Lawrence, only the best for your future. As a follower of your website for years I am glad you are here.
I think all Americans should attend one of these ceremonies at one point in their life. If I were a social studies teacher in school, I would make it a mandatory part of the curriculum.
Congratulations! I am very happy for you! I was a five-year-old when my mom (me mum?) was studying for her citizenship. My contribution was teaching her the Pledge of Allegiance. I'm still proud of helping her over forty years later.
I'm so happy that you're excited about voting! Vote every chance you get. National elections make the most news, but local and state elections will affect your life the most, and it's something that so many of us take for granted. For "smaller" elections, you can generally get in and out in minutes. For national elections, go early or plan on queueing for up to an hour (I'm fairly certain I've used 'queueing' correctly here, I'm more used to 'waiting in line' :) )
@@nerfherder4284 whether or not I agree with my fellow Americans and the choices they make at the polls, I always support their ability to make their own decisions
@nerfherder I get that you've swallowed a lifetime share of propaganda, but the whole tRump thing wasn't ever offensive (or funny) to begin with, no its more an indicator of who's too immature to have a civil adult political debate with. Just a friendly heads-up. 🙂✌
I’m always so happy for people who choose to become citizens and are genuinely thrilled they have done so. I wish more Americans born to this country felt as you do. You seem like a nice guy, Lawrence. All the best to you!
Oh please, your fake patriotism is disgusting. I wonder how much he will like America if he ever gets chronically ill or disabled and there are no safety nets whatsoever like his country. Because people like you call it communism to help the sick right?
My Son-in-law was born in Co. Limerick, Ireland. They've been married 8 years now, and he was sworn in as a US Citizen in October of 2022. Talk about culture shock: a boy from SW Ireland, living in Central Texas!
The ability to vote still means a lot to me, even after decades of voting. A number of years ago, I requested an extra “I voted” sticker, attached it to a piece of paper, and put that on my fridge. It still is there.
From Minnesota here and we love you Laurence! Thanks for everything you do, and for being so kind to your host nation. I wish we had a million more like you.
@@Logan_93 sorry I should've added more to my comment to let you know that I thought your comment was really awesome. I was only pointing it out because if you went through all the hoops to become a citizen it might suck to feel like it's still seen by other people as your host nation and not just your nation. But again, I'm probably splitting hairs and I didn't mean to make it seem like there was anything malicious in what you said.
Lawrence, we're blessed to have you be a part of the American experience and experiment. Thank you for reminding us how blessed we are to live in the imperfection perfection of the American culture.....
Brilliant, Laurence! Your enthusiasm for voting is lovely. Please hold onto that. I still get teary putting that I Voted sticker on. You have a huge following. You’ll serve this nation well by getting fence-sitters to vote. And sir, you may now claim air conditioning as your right as an American. Cheers❤️
Please be aware that my mother, also British, had dual citizenship until she voted in the US. At that point she said she lost her British citizenship. It works the other way around too. Vote in England, lose US citizenship.
@@lesliestout1241Hmm... I'm not sure why that would've happened to your mom. I have two friends who are British/American dual citizens (on account'a being born in England to American parents). They both vote, here in the US, and both... still dual citizens.
@@Anelisa8520 it’s very possible, laws have been changed. My mother came over in 1952. Nothing I had to worry about, so any changes would have flown by unnoticed. I only remember what my mother told me ages ago.
I work long hours. I leave work early, but in the evening, on voting day. I get home and walk to the precinct, usually arriving less than an hour before closing time. By then, they have no stickers left. So I have to settle for wearing a sticker peeled off a banana.
I realized at one point t while watching this that I had this GIANT smile on my face, and laughed at myself because I remembered a foreign friend say, “Yeah, Americans get so freakin’ happy when you tell them you’re now one of them.” (She wasn’t the first to say that, so I suppose there’s truth it there.) Anyway, I’m so freakin’ happy! Welcome home!
Congratulations!!! I'm proud to call you a "Fellow American'. I wish everyone loved our country as much as you do. I can't wait to see your video on the first time you get to vote.
I’m really so very excited for you. I’ve been watching your videos for so long and I love your journey. Thank you for coming and staying. Please tell others that we aren’t all bad. And keep up the good work 🥳🥳
My wife is naturalized and the adoption process we went through for my daughter ended with her receiving her naturalization in the mail. (We had to go to the US Embassy in her country to speak with a very nice Consular officer, then carry a “diplomatic packet” all the way home, without opening it (she did have a passport, but from her country). Customs accepted the packet and welcomed us all home. After 10 hours of flying my daughter’s face was like, that’s nice, where’s my bed?
OK so he is a US citizen not an "American" citizen. If you talk to anybody in N, S or Central America that is their #1 annoyance with us. They are technically American too. It would be like getting your Moroccan citizenship and saying you are an African citizen.
Dirtsky there are fools out there, Americans, who are ashamed of this country. Convinced that it’s the most awful place on Earth. I encourage them to leave if it’s so bad, and somehow they are still here. I’m proud to be American.🙂👍🏼
Someone years ago was asked what he loved most about America. He responded that anyone who took the Oath of American citizenship was automatically treated like they were a descendant of one of the Mayflower Pilgrims. 🇺🇸
That's as it should be. Don't let anyone tell you different. You come here and support the ideals this country stands for (even if we do fall short sometimes), you're welcome. At least, that's the way I feel about it.
@@BillPeschelno citizen is required to do that. The majority of natural born citizens don't uphold those ideals. But what the hell are the ideals anyway, and who decides that? No one does, so we are meant to be good humans and let everyone have whatever ideals, beliefs, and opinions they feel like. Even if they actually hate America and/or Americans, such as the many many home-grown Nazis here. I'd much rather they weren't here and would keep their damn mouths shut. But we all have those rights to be ourselves, even the assholes and people you or I just don't agree with.
Glad you are a citizen, and can’t wait for you learn more to be happy about in this country. I know we have a lot of good and bad things and I like watching you cover them.
Congratulations on getting your citizenship! I very Sincerely and earnestly mean that! You’re 100% as much an American as anyone in this great country is, or ever has been, no matter how many generations they’ve been here. That’s what it means to be an American!!
So happy for you man. I’ve enjoyed your videos for a while and I’m happy to welcome you as a fellow American. I hope your American dream is lived out in reality.
Welcome to US citizenship! (applause, applause!) I've been away for a while but I'm glad I'm back, especially now that BritBox is your sponsor. You and BritBox literally got me through the pandemic, and I'm still subscribed to both. God Save the King and God Bless America!
I’m very happy for you and as a fellow American I’m touched that you’re proud to be American, because unfortunately so many people are trashing America lately.
I went to Canada from the US, a trip of under a hundred miles a few times to visit a gentleman friend. The Manboy border guard on the American side must have asked 4 times "What is the purpose of your visit?" I was not a spring chicken, being over 50. I kept saying I was visiting a friend. The fourth time, I was really tempted to say, "Well, I'm kinda hoping to get laid."
I encountered a similar situation before 9/11 when I arrived in Seattle from Victoria, BC. There was only one US Customs agent working, and he was questioning everyone, regardless of nationality, like the Gestapo even though he had three flights of people who needed to get through. I had been in BC to be in my friend's wedding and thought I was going to have to show him my bridesmaid's dress to prove it! It was a different experience when I arrived in Canada a week before. Two RCMP were standing at a podium and did nothing but welcome everyone to Canada!
Saucy ladies corner, Im here! When I was returning from Canada one year when I just needed to get away for a few days around New Year's, the guard at the border was not a man boy, he was closer to the vicinity of my age. When I said I was just on vacation in Montreal, he said "by yourself?" I quickly calculated whether or not I could get in trouble for saying "well, if you want to come with me next time...."
Loved this video so much. It’s super interesting to hear how happy and proud you are to be an American. We are very lucky that you wanted to become a citizen and I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing your first reactions, and all those face stickers, after your first vote as a citizen. Congratulations and truly, welcome home! 🇺🇸
So glad you're glad you're an American! PS: First time I went to the UK in college, someone asked me "Are you in the queue?" I had no idea what he meant. Had to ask him what he was asking me.
This exact thing happened to me and my bf last month. Standing outside a venue, looking for our tickets, we were off to the side, on the side. Two guys asked “Are we queueing?” They came to us later, saying “When you said “no”, we thought you were joking” 😂
We're glad to have you Lawrence! I have a friend that became a citizen a few years back and I sent him and apple pie ;) I love it when people that really want to be a part of our country take the leap and become citizens, it makes me feel really proud and lucky that we are attracting such great people.
Laurence, I too am a naturalized 🇺🇸 citizen since July 1986, which was the centennial of the Statute of Liberty. On #3, I volunteered for years as a poll worker in Sacramento County, CA and ran an election precinct. On lines/queues you should have seen the line at the bookstore at CSU, Sacramento in the 1990s (there was construction going on), they put the lines at a Soviet grocery store to shame. Now the awkward part. My country of birth and former citizenship is Spain 🇪🇸; so since you kept your 🇬🇧 citizenship, I want you to give ME Gibraltar 🇬🇮 back now! Thank you. I’m still in therapy over Catherine of Aragón.
@@sherryford667 It has been my experience that naturalized Americans become the most enthusiastic citizens. I found this out many years ago when I was in the Army. Those were the few guys that didn't join because they needed a job. Even the territorials(Puerto Ricans and American Samoan) were way more patriotic than native borns. Odd thing that. It was almost like they thought they owed the country instead of the other way around with native borns. Ya know that Kennedy thing ask what you can do for your country. Cheers
As an American citizen who spent seven years in England as a boy (and honeymooned there, too!), I have warm feelings about your homeland, and I'm delighted you're here, sir!
And we love that YOU are a US Citizen! 💖 🇺🇸
It used to be that being a citizen was beneficial. Nowadays, when a citizen and a noncitizen (especially if they're considered a so-called " pers0n 0f C0L0R " ) are both charged with the same crime, you'd best believe it won't be the citizen who is given preferential treatment by the courts.
(so far) lol
@@elgatofelix8917like what being white?
@linsees. Totally agree! Am so glad he became an American, and am happy he has duel citizenship! We are so proud of him, Thank him for his courage, and insights, and we do applaud his accomplishments! We look forward to his future accomplishments, and his reflections, we are soooooo fortunate he chose us!!
@@elgatofelix8917Bigots gonna bigot.
There was a quote that I remember seeing a while ago. “You can move to France, but you won’t become French. You can move to Germany, but you won’t become German. But when you move here, you become an American.” Congrats on the citizenship🥳🇺🇸
That’s the beauty of a national identity instead of a racial identity. As long as you respect and hold our values and wish to be a genuine part of this country, we welcome you with open arms 🇺🇸
That’s very true
100% this!
Same goes for Canada NZ and Australia - and perhaps England
@@gordtulk Don't know about the others, but definitely not England. I have had this conversation with several Brits.
Am I the only one who loves hearing "Welcome home"? I'm a US citizen by birth and it still makes me so happy to hear it like 'yes! yes I'm so happy to be home, thank you!'
Good for you Laurence! We are happy to welcome you as a US citizen. YAY!!! 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸
I so enjoyed this video. I don't believe I've ever heard someone who has become a UScitizen actually express how they feel about becoming one of us. It's actually humbling to hear you describe how differently it has made you feel. Thank you, and by all means, welcome to the family.
John Oliver is a Brit who also became an American a year or two ago and expressed his own relief at finally having that completed.
I would say Craig Ferguson was fairly and openly enthusiastic about his citizenship journey start to finish.
@@KelsaRavenlockI miss seeing Craig on late night TV…
Yes, I think the only folks I have seen discuss this were already extra famous celebrities like John Oliver. Nice to see a creator who is someone not as New York "glamorous" give a more in depth dive
You need to spend some more time with new immigrants to the US. It is a humbling experience. It really makes you appreciate what you have by accident of birth.
Im from Peru my husband from Brazil and became Us citizen a few years ago. We love our countries but the US has giving us so many opportunities. We couldn’t be more grateful to this country. Congrats on your citizenship 🇺🇸
Congrats on being an American 💪
Yay! Congratulations 🇺🇸
Welcome to America. I'm glad you've been happy here.
As a 2nd generation peruvian, welcome!!
It’s *your* country now. 🇺🇸
So happy you are an American! Congratulations on your citizenship! We're proud to have you!
We are happy to have a great guy like you as one of us.🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Here's my fun US passport story: when you take the highschool SAT test you have to show ID. Most kids showed a school ID, driver's license, or learner's permit. I was young and homeschooled the first time I took it. I had neither. However, thanks to a Bahamas cruise, I had a passport. Only kid the lady had ever seen checking in to take the SAT with a passport.
My som got his first passport when he was three weeks old.
When my son voted for the first time in the last election, they announced it & everyone cheered. It was awesome!
I'm an American (only) and this is the sweetest thing ever. Also it's always nice when people from other countries don't hate us. 😂
Congratulations, Laurence, on becoming a US citizen! We’re thrilled to have you. 🇺🇸
Well earned citizenship for someone who adds greatly to our culture and society. His videos make me proud to be American in ways I hadn't yet thought of.
My grandmother came to The US over 100 years ago, through Ellis Island as a young girl ( by herself) and became a naturalized citizen before women were granted the right to vote. The pride she had about being an American and impressing upon her daughters and granddaughters the privileges we have now always stuck with me. I see that same look in your eyes about being American . Thank you for helping me remember Grandma Mary.
Similar story with my grandfather. A railroad paid his way here providing he worked for them for some number of years. You could argue as to whether that was a fair deal from the railroad but to my grandfather it was a chance at a life he could never have if he stayed where he was. He fought in the US Army during the first world war and he was always proud to be an American.
Both my parents were 1st Gen Americans. All four of my grandparents came over when they were young people, and became citizens. All worked very hard and made a good life. And were thankful every single day.
My Italian grandparents insisted that we speak English, because "We are American!" And proud to be.
Nice to see we've come full circle now privileges are being taken away from young women
*clearly your grandmother was an exceptionally awesome woman that passed on that trait to her decedents*
🇺🇸
I’m so happy for all of us Americans that you are an American citizen! We’re privileged to have you join us!
I'm so proud to have a fine upstanding fellow like you as a fellow American! I was born here, but you CHOSE to be one of us! Bravo Lawrence!
Laurence combines many of the best qualities of being British and being American.
I’m so used to people taking the worst possible things about America, from foreigners or Americans, that it’s kinda depressing and demoralizing. Finding the one video a year where someone is actually remotely positive is so refreshing. Thank you. I haven’t even watched the video yet but it’s already proved helpful.
TBH, the first couple of these are "America is xenophobic and being American helps with that." Which uuuuh, doesn't help me feel any better.
@@BlakeFaeMortonwell Im American and about half the country is xenophobic...but he's white so you are all okay with it, right? Some of the comments on this prove it. I hate this country and would rather live in Europe, but I'm chronically ill w so much debt because nothing is covered under insurance and Medicare is so expensive. I'm in global groups for my disease and can't get over how other countries take care of the chronically ill/disabled, we function like a third world country.
@@Kim-dm4yb Not sure why you replied to me. But yaaaa. Things bad here.
@@BlakeFaeMorton because you were stating you don't like when people call America xenophobic, they are just stating facts and I hate living with such racist hateful ignorant people...we have a far right movement that has now even influenced the ccrazies around the world. Nazi Germany is repeating itself right here in America. We truly are the dumbest country in the world and don't understand why anyone from Europe, Canada, Australia, etc would ever want to give up their strong social programs and overall sanity to live here.
@@BlakeFaeMorton Well that's you just taking something and being very negative.
Oooooo Laurence ... we're so happy you're here 🤗 🇺🇸
Should have started sentence with "Now I know what you're thinking..." but nice one!
I have come back through US immigration dozens of times, at various airports, and I never fail to appreciate those special words, "Welcome home."
When my brother went to the Caribbean for my wedding, and he came back through customs, they asked him "what is this.?" And he said "5 lb of Dominican coffee, ground and wrapped up in paper and string." They said "welcome home" and stamped his passport. He was so happy!
I've never been told "Welcome Home" when entering America. In fact, America is the only country which gives me a nasty reception when I try to enter. And yes, I'm an American citizen.
@@bigscarysteve-- I've always been wished "Welcome Home" by ICE agents at U.S. airports... but never when making a land border crossing from Canada or Mexico. Perhaps that has been your experience. For some reason that defies explanation, the "nice ICE" agents are employed at airports, and the surly agents who have hemorrhoids are posted to our land borders. I wish it wasn't that way.
@@bigscarysteve Sorry, What can I say? Maybe America just wants me back more. 😉 😆 Plus, I'm not scary.
I went to France last year and when I came back the passport people said welcome home......I felt special, until now.....thanks a lot.
You have added to the greatness of the US by joining us. Thank you.
You worked hard to become an American.... Hold your head up high and be proud.... You deserve it....
As an American citizen, I wish more American citizens felt this way. Thank you for this!
Immigrants tend to feel this why, which is why I love immigrants❤
@@ojyochan legal* immigrants I’m sure. I’m sure illegals do to, though, otherwise they wouldn’t want to come here. Shoot, they get more benefits than American citizens at this point
You can tell he is a citizen because he has already picked up the incorrect notion that he is "American". America has multiple continents N, S and Central with many countries full of citizens who are all technically "American".
@@ojyochan I like them too, so long as they are legal!
@@nerfherder4284Yes. It does seem to be a long- established custom to refer to citizens of the US as Americans. I try to refer to the US, rather than America in writing, which can sound stilted when spoken.
I wonder when America became the common appellation? Could it have been prior to the establishment of all the individual countries of the continents as separable entities? That would make sense.
There is something else, a connotation rather than a denotation. "America" has the ring of "Liberty" and of "Opportunity" about it; "The United States" has the ring of power and legalism, hegemony and dominance about it.
Just how my ears hear it.
Welcome Home Laurence!
I'm a daughter and granddaughter of Wales. I know my father and his dad loved being Americans -- just as you described your joy at being a citizen now.
It's always nice to hear something good about the US. So many people overseas seem to think that it's just awful here. Keep the positive videos coming!
not many people overseas think America is awful. I have gone to 15 plus different countries and never did I hear a single bad thing about America. Some Americans hate our country and they have never gone to another country. My personal opinion is some Americans are just so filled with hate they project hate where there is none.
@@Pathless168I think it’s more of a online internet hate which is ironic cause the internet was invented in America LOL 😂.
Anyway In real life I have heard plenty of people who say positive things about America and if you look at international pew image polls the US is received more favourably than negative
Yeah. And their favorite thing to talk sh!t about us is the 2nd amendment. It gets old fast.
@@Pathless168Ehh, there are plenty of people- even a majority, depending on where you go- who think ill of the US, but now it’s more like they’re laughing at us…
Let's keep things in perspective: anyone in a developing country and/or politically unstable region would move Heaven and earth to migrate their families to the US.
The rest of the developed world has valid criticisms of the US, but only the spoiled and entitled characterize it as a *bad* place to live.
Congratulations, my American bro! Welcome to the family. 🇬🇧🇺🇲
Love having you as a citizen! Please when you vote show us a pic of you with stickers all over your face with a flag in one hand and a sparkler in the other!
Glad your dream has come true in becoming a citizen.
We have friends from Columbia attempting to become citizens. She just passed her exam and is awaiting the swearing in ceremony.
Congrats to her! If the voting registration people aren’t at the swearing-in ceremony, swing by the elections office in celebration and get her registered to vote.
Colombia
Hey, we're glad to have you friend.
I am a new citizen myself! So happy and proud about it. I could relate so much to what you said. I would also add that when I see military personnel now I have a new sense of pride and gratitude for their service to MY country.
Welcome! Happy to have you here 😀
I'm a military "brat" and on behalf of my father and brothers, thank you for that respect!
Welcome home! Congratulations & best wishes to you! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Welcome home! 😊❤🇺🇸
Welcome Home!!!!
I have been watching the British sense of humor (or is it humour) for at least 45 years, and it has not brought me as much comic relief from our times as you on this channel. I really love to hear your take about being "Lost in the Pond". You are great on this channel. And "Welcome" as a new American.
Welcome to the United States! We are all honored to have you as a US citizen. Thank you for all of your videos
You are a great addition to our country, Lawrence! Congratulations!
Hi Lawrence, congratulations on becoming a US citizen! I know exactly how you feel about being a newly “minted” American, I also dreamed of coming to US when I was quite young, my dream came true and one of the happiest days of my life was the day I was sworn in as an American citizen. Now that you’re able to vote, do your research and vote for people who love this country.
Very wise to inform of how to vote. Most just jump on team Red or Blue and dont care, are too dumb, or too brainwashed to understand who they're voting for.
Yes definitely do your research and vote for those who actually love this country and this democracy and not for those who say they love it but their actions don't show it. Welcome to being a citizen. Those were 7 really good reasons.
@bethsmith3421 Would you think someone loves thier country if both of their sons join the U.S. Army??
@@josephdunn3757 It would depend. The action of your children do not necessarily say anything about you. I was talking about politicians. You have to look into their voting in congress, the bills they have supported or brought forward. Don't just listen to what they say. Look into whether they do things that benefit the constituents they are supposed to represent.
No one you can vote for loves this country as both parties are corrupt to their core. There is only voting for the lesser evil. Which isn't any different really from voting in the UK.
But spoiler alert, the more they talk about loving the country the bigger clue it is that they're trying to play on your emotions to cover their own corruption.
Welcome aboard Laurence.
Ooo, Laurence, I remember well when you let us, your loving fans, know that you are a US citizen. I teared up a bit, SO happy for you & Tarah, & of course Uncle Toby.
I am an auld lady (in far off Southern California) & your videos bring me such joy.
From one fellow American to another, I respectfully request more Kafka in your videos. Sorry, sorry, I just love cats, & K is SO sweet. Please hug Tarah from me.
Glad to have you! And don't worry, none of us feel welcome by airport security!
So true.
Laurence, I'm so proud to know this was a choice that's made you so happy. You represent all of us better than some of us deserve. Glad to have you!
Huh? Srry i just didn’t understand
WE LOVE YOU BUDDY !!! SO GLAD YOU ARE ONE OF US !!! YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME HERE ♥♥♥
One of the most impacful event I ever attended was the swearing in ceremony for New American citizens. Being born in the USA, I never had my citizenship questioned. Being able to welcome new citizens to my country was the most honorable and proud moment of my life at the time. As new citizens they give up their previous life to start anew in my country. Welcome to the USA Lawrence, only the best for your future. As a follower of your website for years I am glad you are here.
I had this same experience.
@@Alex.Holland ... and me
Me too. Followed for years and glad he's here.
I think all Americans should attend one of these ceremonies at one point in their life. If I were a social studies teacher in school, I would make it a mandatory part of the curriculum.
Laurence,
Welcome to the land of the free and the home of the brave!
All great reasons. I particularly like that becoming a citizen has really made you feel at home here and enhanced your sense of belonging.
We are proud to have you as an American citizen, Lawrence! Congrats! 👏🙌
@@Tuvok_Shakur oh I get it... u for UK right? That was so funny I forgot to laugh
@@Tuvok_Shakuri want a shawarma
Congratulations! I am very happy for you! I was a five-year-old when my mom (me mum?) was studying for her citizenship. My contribution was teaching her the Pledge of Allegiance. I'm still proud of helping her over forty years later.
I'm so happy that you're excited about voting! Vote every chance you get. National elections make the most news, but local and state elections will affect your life the most, and it's something that so many of us take for granted. For "smaller" elections, you can generally get in and out in minutes. For national elections, go early or plan on queueing for up to an hour (I'm fairly certain I've used 'queueing' correctly here, I'm more used to 'waiting in line' :) )
....until he decides he's gonna vote for tRump 😂 everyone is always excited to have someone vote for their candidate 😂
@@nerfherder4284 whether or not I agree with my fellow Americans and the choices they make at the polls, I always support their ability to make their own decisions
@@nerfherder4284 while I agree with @llfields3, I'm thinkin that's not gonna happen 🍊🚫
@nerfherder I get that you've swallowed a lifetime share of propaganda, but the whole tRump thing wasn't ever offensive (or funny) to begin with, no its more an indicator of who's too immature to have a civil adult political debate with.
Just a friendly heads-up. 🙂✌
@@Jamey_ETHZurich_TUe_Rulezlolllollllolollll…. Good one! 😊
I’m always so happy for people who choose to become citizens and are genuinely thrilled they have done so. I wish more Americans born to this country felt as you do. You seem like a nice guy, Lawrence. All the best to you!
Oh please, your fake patriotism is disgusting. I wonder how much he will like America if he ever gets chronically ill or disabled and there are no safety nets whatsoever like his country. Because people like you call it communism to help the sick right?
Sadly, I too see such a "who cares" attitude, especially in our youth today.
My Son-in-law was born in Co. Limerick, Ireland.
They've been married 8 years now, and he was sworn in as a US Citizen in October of 2022.
Talk about culture shock: a boy from SW Ireland, living in Central Texas!
The ability to vote still means a lot to me, even after decades of voting. A number of years ago, I requested an extra “I voted” sticker, attached it to a piece of paper, and put that on my fridge. It still is there.
I have an "I Voted" sticker permanently affixed to my 'fridge.
2 political parties huh. Tough choice 😂😂
@@tecumseh4095 sometimes, it is. It depends on whether or you like/dislike both candidates more or less equally. Then--it's coin-flipping time!
@@Cricket2731 Two party system is not a tough choice so stop making stuff up.
@@tecumseh4095 I'm NOT making stuff up!
From Minnesota here and we love you Laurence! Thanks for everything you do, and for being so kind to your host nation. I wish we had a million more like you.
He's a citizen. It's his nation, not his "host" nation.
@@pixiwix It's still his host nation dude. He wasn't born here. Don't act all weird about it. You know exactly what I mean.
@@Logan_93 sorry I should've added more to my comment to let you know that I thought your comment was really awesome. I was only pointing it out because if you went through all the hoops to become a citizen it might suck to feel like it's still seen by other people as your host nation and not just your nation. But again, I'm probably splitting hairs and I didn't mean to make it seem like there was anything malicious in what you said.
@@pixiwix I gotcha. I understand! I didn't mean to say "host nation" in any sort of derogatory way. Plus, you're right! It's his country now.
As an American, I'm so glad you've came to the US! So glad to have you! 🇺🇸 ❤
Lawrence, we're blessed to have you be a part of the American experience and experiment. Thank you for reminding us how blessed we are to live in the imperfection perfection of the American culture.....
Why does "the American experiment" always make me laugh 😂😂
We love that you are an American citizen, Laurence. Congratulations and a huge round of applause!
Absolutely!
One of us.
One of us.
ONE OF US!
Congratulations 🎉! Lets throw a party!
We love having you here :)
Brilliant, Laurence! Your enthusiasm for voting is lovely. Please hold onto that. I still get teary putting that I Voted sticker on. You have a huge following. You’ll serve this nation well by getting fence-sitters to vote. And sir, you may now claim air conditioning as your right as an American. Cheers❤️
Please be aware that my mother, also British, had dual citizenship until she voted in the US. At that point she said she lost her British citizenship. It works the other way around too. Vote in England, lose US citizenship.
@@lesliestout1241Hmm... I'm not sure why that would've happened to your mom. I have two friends who are British/American dual citizens (on account'a being born in England to American parents). They both vote, here in the US, and both... still dual citizens.
@@Anelisa8520 it’s very possible, laws have been changed. My mother came over in 1952. Nothing I had to worry about, so any changes would have flown by unnoticed. I only remember what my mother told me ages ago.
I work long hours. I leave work early, but in the evening, on voting day. I get home and walk to the precinct, usually arriving less than an hour before closing time. By then, they have no stickers left. So I have to settle for wearing a sticker peeled off a banana.
😂
Congratulations Brother! Were glad your here 🇺🇲🤝
We're glad to have you! And yes, we ARE very happy for you!! Congratulations, Laurence!!
So happy you are a citizen, Laurence! It is uplifting to have a great guy like you want to join us. Welcome to the family! ❤
Congratulations! Glad to have you!
I realized at one point t while watching this that I had this GIANT smile on my face, and laughed at myself because I remembered a foreign friend say, “Yeah, Americans get so freakin’ happy when you tell them you’re now one of them.” (She wasn’t the first to say that, so I suppose there’s truth it there.) Anyway, I’m so freakin’ happy! Welcome home!
Congratulations!!! I'm proud to call you a "Fellow American'. I wish everyone loved our country as much as you do. I can't wait to see your video on the first time you get to vote.
Congratulations brother!!!!🎉🦅🇺🇸🤙🇺🇸🦅🎉
I’m really so very excited for you. I’ve been watching your videos for so long and I love your journey. Thank you for coming and staying. Please tell others that we aren’t all bad. And keep up the good work 🥳🥳
My wife is naturalized and the adoption process we went through for my daughter ended with her receiving her naturalization in the mail. (We had to go to the US Embassy in her country to speak with a very nice Consular officer, then carry a “diplomatic packet” all the way home, without opening it (she did have a passport, but from her country). Customs accepted the packet and welcomed us all home. After 10 hours of flying my daughter’s face was like, that’s nice, where’s my bed?
Welcome and Congratulations. 🇺🇲
Welcome home, brother!! We welcome you with open arms.
We are happy for you Laurence and happy for us that you chose to become one with us!
CONGRATS 🎉
I wish native born Americans were as deeply and thoughtfully proud of their citizenship as you are.
Pride is a sin
@@RobertKing-oq4fq So is pointing out sins.
these days, it's getting harder and harder to be!
I am.
OK so he is a US citizen not an "American" citizen. If you talk to anybody in N, S or Central America that is their #1 annoyance with us. They are technically American too. It would be like getting your Moroccan citizenship and saying you are an African citizen.
I love the dual US/British flag you showed. You need one of those for the studio.
Lawrence, I have to agree, being American feels special and wonderful. I get an overall feeling of patriotism every time I vote. Welcome 🇺🇸❤️
Refreshing to hear someone who’s proud to be American without apologizing. Earned my “subscribe”
apologizing for what
Dirtsky there are fools out there, Americans, who are ashamed of this country. Convinced that it’s the most awful place on Earth. I encourage them to leave if it’s so bad, and somehow they are still here. I’m proud to be American.🙂👍🏼
Someone years ago was asked what he loved most about America. He responded that anyone who took the Oath of American citizenship was automatically treated like they were a descendant of one of the Mayflower Pilgrims. 🇺🇸
That's as it should be. Don't let anyone tell you different. You come here and support the ideals this country stands for (even if we do fall short sometimes), you're welcome. At least, that's the way I feel about it.
*If they're white
@@BillPeschelno citizen is required to do that. The majority of natural born citizens don't uphold those ideals. But what the hell are the ideals anyway, and who decides that?
No one does, so we are meant to be good humans and let everyone have whatever ideals, beliefs, and opinions they feel like. Even if they actually hate America and/or Americans, such as the many many home-grown Nazis here. I'd much rather they weren't here and would keep their damn mouths shut. But we all have those rights to be ourselves, even the assholes and people you or I just don't agree with.
@@sciencemama6801 No asterisk need apply.
@@sciencemama6801lol ok racist
I'm glad you are American too. I'm glad you are able to share this great country with me. We are extremely lucky.
Glad you are a citizen, and can’t wait for you learn more to be happy about in this country. I know we have a lot of good and bad things and I like watching you cover them.
Congratulations on getting your citizenship! I very Sincerely and earnestly mean that! You’re 100% as much an American as anyone in this great country is, or ever has been, no matter how many generations they’ve been here. That’s what it means to be an American!!
So happy for you man. I’ve enjoyed your videos for a while and I’m happy to welcome you as a fellow American. I hope your American dream is lived out in reality.
We're so happy to have you here, mate!
Congrats fellow American.
Welcome to US citizenship! (applause, applause!) I've been away for a while but I'm glad I'm back, especially now that BritBox is your sponsor. You and BritBox literally got me through the pandemic, and I'm still subscribed to both. God Save the King and God Bless America!
I’m very happy for you and as a fellow American I’m touched that you’re proud to be American, because unfortunately so many people are trashing America lately.
Welcome OFFICIALLY to the good ol' USA, Laurence! Enjoy American life,brother! Your wife,I'm sure, is extremely happy for you!
Glad you’re here and one of Us. Great content. God Bless America
I went to Canada from the US, a trip of under a hundred miles a few times to visit a gentleman friend. The Manboy border guard on the American side must have asked 4 times "What is the purpose of your visit?" I was not a spring chicken, being over 50. I kept saying I was visiting a friend. The fourth time, I was really tempted to say, "Well, I'm kinda hoping to get laid."
I encountered a similar situation before 9/11 when I arrived in Seattle from Victoria, BC. There was only one US Customs agent working, and he was questioning everyone, regardless of nationality, like the Gestapo even though he had three flights of people who needed to get through. I had been in BC to be in my friend's wedding and thought I was going to have to show him my bridesmaid's dress to prove it! It was a different experience when I arrived in Canada a week before. Two RCMP were standing at a podium and did nothing but welcome everyone to Canada!
Did you???
Classic ❤️
@@Lilactime402😅😅
Saucy ladies corner, Im here!
When I was returning from Canada one year when I just needed to get away for a few days around New Year's, the guard at the border was not a man boy, he was closer to the vicinity of my age. When I said I was just on vacation in Montreal, he said "by yourself?" I quickly calculated whether or not I could get in trouble for saying "well, if you want to come with me next time...."
Loved this video so much. It’s super interesting to hear how happy and proud you are to be an American. We are very lucky that you wanted to become a citizen and I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing your first reactions, and all those face stickers, after your first vote as a citizen. Congratulations and truly, welcome home! 🇺🇸
Happy to have you.
So glad you're glad you're an American! PS: First time I went to the UK in college, someone asked me "Are you in the queue?" I had no idea what he meant. Had to ask him what he was asking me.
This exact thing happened to me and my bf last month. Standing outside a venue, looking for our tickets, we were off to the side, on the side. Two guys asked “Are we queueing?”
They came to us later, saying “When you said “no”, we thought you were joking” 😂
Love that you are now a US citizen. Welcome. Love all your stories. Much love to you both and to your fur babies.❤
Welcome to America and I'm proud to say you are my countryman. You and your wife would be welcome at my home any day!
Ooh Laurence, it is awesome having you here & even more as an American 🇺🇸. Keep up making great content. God bless!
We're glad to have you Lawrence! I have a friend that became a citizen a few years back and I sent him and apple pie ;) I love it when people that really want to be a part of our country take the leap and become citizens, it makes me feel really proud and lucky that we are attracting such great people.
I love that you sent your friend an apple pie!
@@karenk2409 He loved it! 😺
Happy for you Laurence!
Laurence, I too am a naturalized 🇺🇸 citizen since July 1986, which was the centennial of the Statute of Liberty. On #3, I volunteered for years as a poll worker in Sacramento County, CA and ran an election precinct.
On lines/queues you should have seen the line at the bookstore at CSU, Sacramento in the 1990s (there was construction going on), they put the lines at a Soviet grocery store to shame.
Now the awkward part. My country of birth and former citizenship is Spain 🇪🇸; so since you kept your 🇬🇧 citizenship, I want you to give ME Gibraltar 🇬🇮 back now! Thank you. I’m still in therapy over Catherine of Aragón.
We're proud to have you as a citizen!!
Congratulations, Lawrence. Welcome. ❤
Thanks for the video Laurence. Some of us native borns don't quite get the "whys" of The United States. Great perspective. Cheers from Tennessee
Laurence is smarter than most Americans. He gets the whys.
@@sherryford667 It has been my experience that naturalized Americans become the most enthusiastic citizens. I found this out many years ago when I was in the Army. Those were the few guys that didn't join because they needed a job. Even the territorials(Puerto Ricans and American Samoan) were way more patriotic than native borns. Odd thing that. It was almost like they thought they owed the country instead of the other way around with native borns. Ya know that Kennedy thing ask what you can do for your country. Cheers
Glad that you are enjoying your citizenship. I hope you always feel loved here in your home country.
We are so glad to u
As an American citizen who spent seven years in England as a boy (and honeymooned there, too!), I have warm feelings about your homeland, and I'm delighted you're here, sir!
Its really good to hear that you were able to achieve a childhood dream. Its a rare thing, especially these days.