In a recent burst of trans-Atlantic realism, a straight-talking immigrant reminded everyone just how lucky Americans are. Now living in America, he encounters curious characters puzzled by his decision to settle in what they insist is a “fascist dictatorship.” Their befuddlement provides an endless source of humor for him. Evidently, there’s a lot of confusion about what life under a genuine dictatorship entails. Over in places like North Korea, they aren’t exactly handing out protest permits, much less letting citizens customize their identities on a whim. Yet here, people enjoy freedoms often taken for granted, blissfully unaware of how precious they are.

The misunderstandings are as plentiful as the contradictions in progressive agendas. You sometimes get the most vocal critics grumbling about their so-called oppression, right as they wield placards at yet another protest or broadcast their grievances on social media. These activities—far from being stamped out—run rampant on the streets and screens. In a true dictatorship, they’d find themselves mining cobalt long before they could finish a hashtag. This immigrant finds it amusing when people set fire to the flag while claiming they live under tyranny. Irony, it seems, is a lost art.

While people abroad, like those in the UK, may face legal issues for certain online expressions, Americans enjoy a far greater license to express themselves. Although the UK does have stricter speech laws than the US, the reality is more nuanced than the exaggerated claim of “thousands getting arrested simply for their words.” Here, the First Amendment stands strong. Yet there’s a misplaced nostalgia among some for stricter controls, oblivious to their own freedoms. With the right to bear arms, defend against tyranny, and assemble freely, the level of personal liberty in America is significant. But hey, maybe the grass is always greener where there are no repercussions for shouting one’s opinion from the rooftops?

This immigrant’s perspective is refreshing. Perhaps it takes someone who’s lived outside of it to truly appreciate America’s treasure trove of rights. It’s a simple truth so often lost on those lamenting from their comfortable armchairs. His message to the naysayers is clear: a reality check might be in order before waxing poetic about America’s apparent authoritarianism.

So as he signs off with a wave, he offers a reminder: this immigrant isn’t complaining, nor is he longing for shackles of Old World censorship. Instead, he’s embracing the freedoms patented by the Founding Fathers. Maybe, just maybe, it’s time everyone else did too. God bless America!