People in my situation also probably represent the most law-abiding segment of the population. Any skirmish with the law—even one not involving violence—can result in loss of working privileges and possible deportation. A recent New York Times article about how legal immigrants’ applications are being stalled because the officials who process files are overwhelmed with applications for deportation deferrals was a stinging slap in the face to all of those who chose to do the right thing and get here by following the rules.

What is really surprising is that, in a nation that prides itself on being a nation of laws, the enforcers of the law are told to deliberately look away when it comes to illegal immigration. Also the politically correct term now is undocumented rather than illegal. I for one—after being fingerprinted, photographed, inquired about in detail every time I re-enter the U.S.—know for sure that being undocumented is illegal.

As an “alien,” I have always been and always will be extremely grateful for the education that I have received and the opportunity to work and live in the U.S. In return I have been a good citizen (well, not exactly a citizen), paid my taxes, paid immigration attorneys and stayed on top of the paperwork. I have done so because I realize how important the legal process is and I have nothing but respect and reverence for the law of the land.