Pride

It is the eve of July 4th, and as I sit at the computer waiting for the Johnny Rottens to drift off to sleep, I can't help feel a bit of pride. Pride for my family members who help or who have helped protect our country. Pride for being part of a generation who is trying their best (and at times what may seem like our worst) to help our country move forward as the world changes pace so quickly. No matter our failures, the frustration over government parties fighting like children - I am proud to be a citizen of this country.

I know we aren't going to win a Miss Congeniality award anytime soon. I am not blind to the feelings people have of our country. I wish I could show people from other countries why I am proud. I wish I could put into words the feeling I have when I see our flag fly, or when I see a Veteran walk past in a parade. I wish I could explain why tears stream down my face when I sit with friends and watch fireworks or stand with fellow citizens and listen to someone soulfully sing The Star Spangled Banner. I wish I could explain to the men and woman who sit outside local stores to collect money for Veterans, that please, don't thank me, it is I who thank you. But I can't.

I can only sit here in our home, with the peaceful calm that settles around our house at dusk, and feel a heavy amount of pride. So, if you walk by and see a woman surrounded by two boys and a man, who has tears streaming down her face as fireworks explode above her, don't worry. It is only me.

And do me a favor, will you please? Have a beautiful 4th of July wherever you may call home.