"That's why I'm very proud of being American. I'm proud to pay taxes. I pay a lot of taxes, but it sure beats the alternative"

Payne Stewart's quote speaks to the pride he has in being an American resident. He acknowledges that he pays a lot of taxes, but he is still proud to do so. He acknowledges that paying taxes is a necessary part of being a resident and that it is an opportunity to be able to contribute to the nation. He also implies that the option to paying taxes is even worse, likely describing the absence of liberty and opportunity that exists in other countries. His quote is a tip of the importance of being an American resident and the duty that includes it. It is a reminder that paying taxes is a little price to spend for the numerous advantages of residing in the United States.