A Birthday Card to America

Happy Birthday to my country- the United States of America. We have many patriotic holidays, but I must say this is our most  precious and patriotic of all of them. Men, at great risk to themselves and their families, signed a proclamation that we wanted our independence from British rule and after years of fighting and many dead men, women and children, we earned that right. We won the right to vote for our representatives in government and our head of government -the President of the United States. We may not like who gets into office, but they were put there by a majority vote of everyday people like you and me and not forced upon us as some other countries have.

There are a few thank yous that need to go out today. Try the members of the Armed Forces - Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, National Guard and Reserves, and the United States Border Patrol. (HUH?) The Border Patrol agents are for more than trying to keep non-citizens from crossing our borders; they watch for those who might try to do harm to our country and stop them at the border (they need our help and support too by the way). If you see a serviceman or woman today thank them. Someone before them served to give us our freedom, keep our freedom, and stop our country's enemies. The tradition continues with today's members. Please give them the respect they deserve. And while you're at it, thank a veteran. They don't get that often enough, they really don't. Many have made great sacrifices or the ultimate sacrifice (thank their families). Help when you can and celebrate our independence every day.

While you watch the candles glow and sparkle and fizzle (the fireworks) and listen to some great music and exploding rockets (again the fireworks), participate perhaps in a barbecue, or enjoy your family, raise a glass to our country and wish it a happy birthday with many more to come.