America

When we reflect to consider why America is such a special place, and why we feel such deep pride for her, we remind ourselves that the United States is so much more than a political party, or the scandal of the day. It is so far beyond a poll or even a polarizing political figure. Recently, while in San Diego-leaving a baseball game I got a ride from a taxi to drive us back to our hotel. I sat in the front seat with the driver while my wife and kids took the back seat. As we headed for the hotel I decided to ask the driver about San Diego, and about being a cab driver, etc. Over the next 15 minutes he shared with me his personal story of dreaming as young boy of coming to America from Africa. He described with me his discipline, dedication and determination of saving all his money to come to America. I asked him if he was happy with his decision to come to America and he paused...and looked over at me with a twinkle and tear in his eyes..then a big grin ensued and a deep and unequivocal "YES!" proceeded from his lips. He said that people here in America "seem to have forgotten how blessed they are. " His story is an inspiration for me and a reminder of the power of this amazing "city on a hill. " America is a diverse nation, a blessed and fertile land, developed by dreamers, dedicated, hard working, aspiring men and women who hoped and dreamed for more, a better life. Our forefathers sowed seeds of hope and faith, and had a deep reverence for truth, and a code of honor that was plowed deep into the rich soil of this land. Today, over 237 years later, as we celebrate our independence we continue to reap the harvest of their mighty faith. May we never forget their sacrifice. Make no mistake about it, they understood that no country or nation was perfect. Yet, they left everything they knew behind for America, because they believed this country could be better! That's why they fought and that's why they sought the opportunity, liberty and freedom from oppression. Today, we still should expect better! For example: expect that if we work hard, we should benefit from our labor. In contrast, we don't expect the cards to be stacked against us or to be punished for our hard work's success, by an out of control, behemoth government. Friends, we can do better! We should reasonably expect that our education, work ethic, commitment and dedication is still the fuel that powers the American Dream. As a nation of immigrants we fought for freedom from over-reaching governments, tyrannical dictators, and state sponsored religion... We escaped socialism, communism, and fascism, and have seen the failures of such policies strangle it's own people, destroy creativity, innovation and personal responsibility! We are better than that! I want to say thank you to those who serve this great nation, and all who have served in the past. God bless you for your service. Thank you for letting me share, Randy Young