As someone born and raised in China and a naturalized American citizen, two events in the past few days have brought out a lot of emotions. First was the July 1st celebration of the CCP (or CPC, depending how you say the party that governs China) centennial, then the July 4th holidays.

Sure, the July 1 centennial had the usual CPC propaganda trappings which I do not care for, but it seems the vast majority of Chinese, in China and overseas, are immensely proud of the recent achievements of the country, with CPC at the helm. Of course China still faces many problems and challenges, but which country doesn''t? I saw genuine national pride and confidence in the centennial celebration, and as someone who had left and no longer calls China home, I felt a mixture of nostalgia, pride and regret.

In contrast, my feelings on July 4th consisted of mostly sadness. Maybe even a little anger. America, my adoptive homeland, still the world''s wealthiest and most powerful nation, has not been doing too well, for quite some time. The most note worthy event out of the July 4th holiday weekend seems to be the death of over 180 people across the country from gun violence.

More than 180 people killed by gun violence on holiday weekend (msn.com)

America, is this the way you celebrate your birthday, by using guns (guaranteed by the ridiculously outdated second amendment - in my opinion, but sacred to many) to kill each other among the citizens?

Crime is just one of the many challenges facing America. This is a country that''s divided - politically, economically, culturally and racially - and at war with itself. America, on her 245th birthday, appears confused and lost. And there does not seem to be easy solutions. As a citizen I am saddened, disappointed and, honestly, angry.