HAPPY 4TH

On this day of celebration of the birth of this great nation I am thinking of those who left their homelands; crossing vast seas and overcoming incredible hardships to live on this soil. I am thinking of their enormous courage, hope and for many, the desperation that drove these pioneers. There was passionate pursuit of a new life, of freedom, of a new nation where those who chased such dreams could abide.

On this day of celebration of the birth of this great nation I am thinking about all of the men and women serving in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines around the world who are standing the watch of freedom. I am thinking about the men and women serving in the Coast Guard who on this day will keep us safe on the waterways while defending our coastal borders from our enemies.

On this day of celebration of the birth of this great nation I am thinking of all of the first responders who guard our streets, attend to our injuries and protect our families and homes from harm. For all these and for all others not mentioned who lead our nation, keep us safe, attend to our spiritual needs, educate our citizens and work for our prosperous future, I pray: May God’s richest blessings, eternal comforts and divine guidance be yours today and always.