Truth be told I'm something of a 4th of July grinch. I'm irritated by the firecrackers going off morning to night for the last week. Fireworks I can gladly do without, and while there is much I love about my country, it's hard to feel patriotic and celebrate America while feeling ashamed, outraged and powerless towards our government and its global wreckage.
The good news is, I have the freedom to choose what to think and do today. Roosevelt said, "Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." Today I can be kind to others and enjoy being alive. It's a day for relaxation, the outdoors, happy kids, roasted weenies and community. In a little while Bryon and I are heading over to a friend's party for BBQ, kayaking, fellowship and fun. Meanwhile I feel called to write a quick gratitude list of what I love about the US of A:
- The incredible beauty of the land
- That by and large, Americans are open-hearted, kind, hopeful, generous people
- Freedom of speech, thought, choice, spirituality
- Limitless if-you-can-dream-it-you-can-do-it opportunities
- Stephen Colbert
I wish you a safe, enjoyable holiday.
Comments