I’m proud of my homeland. South Sudan means a lot to me. Sadly, much of the world barely knows that she exists. For example, at the Olympics, they played the Sudanese national anthem instead of ours. That makes me angry. I want to shout to the rest of the world, “Respect South Sudan. Respect my homeland.”
Thankfully, there has been a particularly bright spot for our people, the performance of our national basketball team. Luol Deng, his staff, coaches, and the players are taking on the world. Not too long ago, Luol was in Phoenix, and we went for Ethiopian food. What a pleasure to break injera with such a patriot. Of course, we talked basketball; but we also discussed how to bring greater pride to our nation and our people.
In the past couple of weeks, Luol has followed through on that discussion. The Bright Stars have taken to the court and every South Sudanese at home and around the world should be cheering them on. For they represent us, every one of us. They represent our national aspirations. They represent our national possibilities.
When I watch our team take to the court, my heart swells. I hope yours does as well. When I watch them battle for the ball, take the difficult shot, and work the intricate play, I remember that we have great athletes and great leaders like my friend Luol. Then, I remember dreaming about our future and the possibilities our motherland could offer.
Go Bright Stars. Go South Sudan!
~by Deng Mayik Atem
