Happy 4th of July! Let's be thankful!

Today we celebrate our country's independence.  For most of us, it's a welcome day off in the middle of a work week.  We'll spend it w/family & friends, drinking beer, eating hot dogs & hamburgers, and watching fireworks in the evening (be careful so that you & your loved ones don't become a statistic!).

Unfortunately, many of us have forgotten our American history and our world history.  We've forgotten that our independence & freedoms were not given to us.  Instead, our country's founding fathers had to fight for what we now take for granted.  Many did not get to enjoy these hard earned liberties.

No, the United States of America is not perfect.  No country is.  But we've forgotten President John F. Kennedy's inaugural address: ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.  We've forgotten to be grateful for our freedoms of speech, press & assembly.  Where else do see citizens routinely march in protest against their government without fear of imprisonment?  

No, our country isn't perfect.  No one should have to worry about his or her health(care).  No one should fear bankruptcy due to unforeseen catastrophic illness.  Yes, we need to find an equitable and fair solution to this economically untenable fiasco.  Yet, to what country do most global citizens travel when seeking the finest healthcare available in the world?

No, our country isn't perfect.  We shouldn't have to spend billions of dollars on our military, certainly not while we argue over the cost of educating our children.  But then again, if everyone played together nicely, we wouldn't have to fight for the poor and oppressed.  With great power comes great responsibility.  So, if you can read this, thank a teach.  If you can read this in English, thank a soldier.  

And remember, our soldiers are not taking the day off w/family & friends, drinking beer, eating hot dogs & hamburgers, and watching fireworks in the evening.  They're doing the same thing they do every day, putting their lives on the line so that others can enjoy the same freedoms, independence & liberties that you & I take for granted.  God bless America!  And may God bless our military and their families.

Follow @alvinblin
Tweet