Happy Independence Day!

We hope all had a wonderful celebration of our nation's independence.

After listening on the radio yesterday to random citizens respond poorly to simple questions about the founding of our nation, I began to reflect a bit more deeply this year about what this holiday is all about. These respondents, including a school teacher, did not know what the holiday was about, from whom we gained our independence, which war it was that we fought to establish the nation, and who wrote the Declaration of Independence. It was sobering to say the least.

Well, at our house we celebrated the usual way enjoying some relaxing time off listening to inspiring patriotic music, watching a couple of patriotic movies about the birth of our nation, spending time with family, eating too much barbequed food and, of course, enjoying the fireworks. But this year, we read together a little about George Washington and his experiences at Valley Forge that led to the turning point in the war. And I was proud to know my children know something about the birth of the nation and what has made us successful.

As the day comes to a close, I find myself with a greater appreciation for all that was sacrificed and for all that was inspired to create what is truly a remarkable system of government established to ensure the freedoms we all enjoy. May we always appreciate, respect and uphold it.

God Bless America!!!