Not a 'proud' Californian. Would find it hard to be a 'proud' USA citizen of any State given the dysnfunctional politics and pervasive materialism that exists there.

However, I have to commend your writing and accept that most of us are 'proud' of or, at least, identify with what we regard or connect with as our home place. - I've been away from Yorkshire for 53 years but still regard it as home and, for some unfathomable and probably nonsensical reason, would prefer to die back there.

Sorry, I'm ranting, as is my wont. I just enjoy your humour and it always gives me a lift, as it has this morning. It is also a very welcome relief from the constant, simplistic and unproductive sniping and griping of the GOP v Democrat, Trump v Biden obsessed, after all although very different individuals, the system, i.e. the real problem, is unlikely to change.

However, just in case I my chronic depression reaches its greatest depths ever on November 24th (is that the date), please, please, write for me and warm my cold, cold, heart before I leap into that final abyss.

Take care. Stay safe. ☮️