Illegal Immigration... Let's Think Again

Immigration, mention that word and people immediately jump to their guns ready for a hot argument. The controversy is rampant across the nation, should illegal immigrants be allowed to stay in America? Should they be punished? Is it cruel to send them back or not allow them the same privileges as legal citizens?
From many countries immigrants are traveling to the United States of America. Craving safety and a chance to make something of their lives, they come in hope of a new life. No other nation is quite equal to America in opportunities, freedoms, and rights. Is it a surprise that people wish to relocate here? Seeing this, the government has created a way for people to apply to become residents. It is not easy; in fact it can take an extended periods of time. Many have taken advantage of this and become legal citizens of America. Others have not.
The main controversy concerning immigration focuses on those who immigrate to America illegally. Without following the legal requirements of the government, they arrive and settle in America anyway. What should be cone? Some politicians have suggested that after living in America for a certain period of time illegal immigrants should receive citizenship. Others believe that all those in the country illegally should be shipped back to where they came from. Which is the right choice? What should be done?
Although it is heart wrenching to think of families being sent back, awarding citizenship will only compound the problem. If this is done then all immigrants have a choice. First, they could apply for residence and wait years perhaps to enter the country; or they can illegally enter immediately, take up residence and in a certain number of years they will receive citizenship free and clear. Which option seems easier? If a citizenship is awarded to illegal immigrants, it will encourage all immigrants to enter illegally.
Praising those that break our laws, and seemingly penalizing all who obey the law, does not seem to be a wise move. Compounding the immigration problem, America will be overrun with illegal immigrants. Sadly, if this occurs, there may be so many illegal immigrants in the country that those who apply legally will have to be refused. Think of the results of this policy. Does it not seem more profitable to reward those who do the right thing?