In honor of the Fourth of July, I wanted to share a few reasons why I am thankful to live in the great ‘ole U.S. of A.
1. I am thankful for our troops. Specifically, both of my grandfathers. My Papa served in the national guard and my Pepere served in the Korean War. Both of these men bravely protected our nation. Both of these men provided for and loved their families with their every breath. Both of these men were strong men with tender hearts. Both of them are greatly missed, but both are rejoicing now with their Savior.
2. I am thankful that I have what I need. There are so many people around the world that don’t have the food, clothing, shelter or even the love that they need. Not only are we blessed with what we need but also, we have more than we need. We scrape food that we don’t like into the trash can, when others sit on the street begging for food.
3. I am thankful for freedom. As Americans, there are so many freedoms we enjoy that others around the world may never experience. I have the freedom to worship my God every Sunday and pray over meals in public without fear of being imprisoned by my government. I have the freedom to share my mind here on this blog. I have the freedom to start/run a business of my own. I have the freedom to be married to a beautiful and godly woman that I chose (and still choose each day). I have the freedom to pursue whatever career I desire.
4. I am thankful for technology/doctors that are available to us. Many of you know that Kaelyn and I are anxiously anticipating the arrival of our miracle IVF baby in December. We believe that if God wanted us to have a baby, He certainly doesn’t need any help from us. But we also believe that God can use skilled doctors and modern medicine to bring about His plan. Although we would never wish this roller coaster path on anyone else, we are so thankful that God used IVF and skilled doctors to bring this little one into our life. We are also thankful that we live in a country where this treatment is available to us! (Photos of us are taken by Madison Rae.)
5. I am thankful for my family. I grew up in a home with loving parents and siblings who are now my best friends. I married a girl who grew up in a loving home and now we are blessed to start our own loving home. I am so thankful for my wonderful wife and our little one on the way!
America is definitely not perfect, but that is because it is made up of sinful men and women (“of whom I am chief”). Regardless of it’s imperfections, I am so thankful to be an American. So… bring on the BBQ, the parades, and of course… the fireworks!!