As another July 4th comes our way, we celebrate with joy and fun the birthday of our country. I am reminded of how great a land we really have. Its beauty—where national parks, state forests, endless highways, gigantic mountain ranges all give testimony to God’s blessings on us and help to inspire our souls and minds. The people—where a mixture of color, ethnicity, and talent blend together to give our country character and personality. Its institutions—where democracy, politics, religion, education and faith paint a picture of freedom worth defending and celebrating.
I have traveled to many countries and places around the world. I can proudly say that the world is great, but America is the best. The freedoms we enjoy, the pride we exude, the liberties we share and the faith we demonstrate are unequaled in all the world. Granted, we can be too commercial or consumerist and take our freedoms for granted, but in the end, to always come back to America is a joyous experience. I am grateful to those who have shared their struggles and hopes, ups and downs with me so that I can become a better man. To be a patriot, a citizen is the call of every American. We thank God for His divine providence. Let us never throw it back at Him and abuse our privilege. Thanks to all who have made, and do make, America the home of the brave and the land of the free. One can be a great Christian and a great citizen with God at our side, leading the cause and protecting us with His bounty.
Pray for America, that she remain strong and vigilant—never complacent or prideful, but always Godly and compassionate. So, when the grills get going, and the parades start marching, and the last firework has exploded in beauty, remember why we do all this. The celebration of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
PS: With this column, I’ll take my usual summer break from these columns. May your summer be a great time for fun, friendship, family and your Faith (going to church). My columns resume on Labor Day weekend.