“There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America.”

– President Bill Clinton

Tomorrow America will celebrate another year of existence. This will make 234 years since the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.

The past two centuries have led America down a long and winding road through success and failure; triumph and tragedy; war and peace. It has seen the country reach great heights and fall to stunning depths.

Whether you gather in churches, community buildings or simply enjoy a cookout at home, it is a day to reflect on the great nation we call home. It is a day to celebrate the independence we hold dear and to remember those who gave it to us by their blood, sweat and tears.

She’s not perfect, the ole’ USA. This country has flaws and we make mistakes and sometimes we’re our own worst enemy. This country has been the home of some of the best and brightest has brought about the worst among us.

That’s the price we pay for freedom. We get the bad with the good. We get those who understand the role that faith in God has played in our history and those who want to deny His very existence. We get those who know that freedom comes with a price and those who want to run and hide from every conflict.

For every person who wants to deny the freedoms of those we disagree with, however, there is a person who is willing to fight to the death for the independence of those with whom they have nothing in common.

That’s what is particularly great about this country. Whatever flaws we have is vastly outweighed by our greatness. The problems we have are nothing compared to the strength we have to solve them.

So celebrate this Independence Day. Remember we are a county that may not be perfect, but is still great by any measure.

Happy Independence Day!