How can you express your American creed through action?

My American Creed

In Cleveland, Ohio, there is a city called Bay Village. It’s where I’ve lived my whole life, ever since I was born. From a young age, I’ve always noticed that there’s something special about this place. There’s a strong sense of community that’s unlike anywhere else. People here genuinely care for one another, and that’s something I’ve come to deeply appreciate. We often refer to Bay Village as “The Bay Bubble.” It’s a nickname that reflects how tightly connected our town feels. Inside the Bubble, everyone supports each other. Whether it’s cheering at high school sports games, rallying together for a local fundraiser, or simply showing kindness in everyday life, this community never fails to come through. It’s a place where people go out of their way to make sure others are okay. That constant support is something I’ve learned to value and rely on. One of the biggest ways this community support has impacted me personally is through my experience with sports. I’ve played on many teams over the years, and whether it’s been in soccer, basketball, or any other sport, I’ve always felt the strength of the Bay Village community behind me. When our girls team made it to state, the whole community drove to Columbus to support us leading to the win. Winning feels great, of course, but even more important is the way we show up for each other, no matter the outcome. That’s what defines the true spirit of this place. When someone is injured or going through a hard time, the people here don’t turn away; they show up. I’ve seen fundraisers organized for families in need, team captains stepping up to help injured players, and friends constantly checking in just to say, “I’m here for you.” It’s not just words. It’s action. That’s the kind of community I’m proud to be part of. And I've experienced it myself recently when tearing my ACL. To me, this is what it means to be American. It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself. It’s about lifting others up when they fall, and working hard not just for your own success but for the good of your neighbors and teammates. It’s about believing in fairness, compassion, and teamwork. My American Creed is rooted in the values I’ve learned growing up in Bay Village—values like loyalty, support, inclusion, and perseverance. Even though Bay Village is just a small town in Ohio, the spirit of this place reflects the best parts of America. It shows that when people come together with a shared sense of purpose and kindness, we can create something truly powerful. I know I’ve been lucky to grow up in a place like this, and I hope to carry these values with me wherever life takes me. That’s my American Creed.