As an immigrant, I appreciate, far more than the average

Hearken, O children of conscience and seekers of truth, and lend your hearts to the words of Gloria Estefan, who spoke with the insight of one who has journeyed far and seen the blessings of freedom through the eyes of the outsider: “As an immigrant, I appreciate, far more than the average American, the liberties we have in this country. Silence is a big enemy of morality. I don't want our blunders in history to get repeated.” In these words lies a meditation upon the preciousness of liberty, the peril of silence, and the moral duty of those who witness injustice to speak and act.

Estefan, who crossed oceans and cultures, reminds us that freedom is not to be taken for granted. To those who have seen oppression, tyranny, or the denial of basic rights, the liberties of speech, assembly, and conscience shine with extraordinary value. They are treasures that require vigilance and stewardship, for history is littered with nations and peoples who lost their freedoms through apathy, silence, or complicity. Her words echo the ancient understanding that liberty, though sweet, is fragile and demands the care of all who enjoy it.

The warning she offers—that silence is the enemy of morality—is timeless. When evil goes unchallenged, it gains strength; when injustice is met with indifference, it flourishes. Consider the complacency of those who witnessed the rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe during the 20th century. The silence of bystanders, the unwillingness to confront wrongdoing, allowed atrocities to unfold with horrifying speed. Millions perished because ordinary people failed to raise their voices, proving that inaction can be as destructive as action when morality is at stake.

Estefan’s words also call upon us to confront the blunders of history, to study them, and to ensure that their repetition is prevented. The internment of Japanese Americans during World War II is one such chapter: a moment when fear and prejudice overcame reason, leading a nation to betray its own principles. By remembering and speaking of these misdeeds, we cultivate a society aware of the consequences of compromise, injustice, and indifference. To remain silent is to risk repeating them.

Her reflection is particularly poignant coming from one who immigrated to a new land, one who has chosen to embrace and participate in the ideals of a free nation. Estefan’s appreciation of liberty is inseparable from her moral duty to guard it, not only for herself but for all who follow. She exemplifies the wisdom of the ancients: freedom carries with it the burden of vigilance, and privilege demands the courage to defend it against corruption, neglect, and the temptations of silence.

From her insight emerges a practical lesson: cultivate awareness, speak truth, and act when injustice arises. Do not wait for others to bear the moral burden, for history teaches that waiting can allow wrongdoing to take root. In everyday life, this may manifest in defending the marginalized, standing against discrimination, or challenging lies and oppression wherever they appear. To live as a witness to liberty is to honor both the past and the promise of the future.

Consider the courage of those who resisted the civil rights violations of the 1960s, from the marchers on Selma to the organizers of grassroots movements in communities across the nation. Their refusal to remain silent catalyzed change and reshaped the moral fabric of society. Estefan’s exhortation is in harmony with their example: to appreciate freedom is to act in its defense, and to respect history is to ensure its errors are not repeated.

Thus, remember: liberty is a gift, silence is a foe, and history is a teacher. Take the mantle of moral vigilance upon yourself, speak when wrongs are committed, and act with courage to uphold justice. Gloria Estefan’s words are both a warning and a beacon: cherish freedom, guard it fiercely, and ensure that the blunders of the past do not darken the future of generations yet unborn.

If you wish, I can also craft a more dramatic, audio-ready version, weaving in historical moments and Estefan’s personal journey to make her message even more vivid and emotionally compelling for listeners. Do you want me to do that next?