As I listen to the fireworks exploding outside (don't worry, we live in the county and will be outside with our own in a little while), I can't help but think of the bounty and blessings we enjoy as Americans.  Our country isn't perfect, far from it, we could spend days listing it's faults.  BUT, stop and think for a minute about what we DO have.  The freedom to worship as we choose, the freedom to make our own choices, good or bad (as long as we don't hurt others in the process), the freedom to come and go.  Many in the world don't have those luxuries.  I know that growing up here, it's hard to imagine life any other way. We tend to take it for granted and get upset when small things go wrong.  We forget that not everyone has the same protection to set our own course .

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--"

We also forget the men and women who have sacrificed everything to ensure we keep those rights.  Countless servicemen and women and many civilians have given their life, their health, time with their families and so much more.  The next time you see someone in uniform, do what my son does, walk up, thank them for their service and shake their hand.  

Tags: 4th Of July Independence Freedom Holiday Fireworks Huntsville