When I think about it, it's amazing to say that we wake up in an environment that is not war-torn. It is amazing to say that though everyone is different and has opposing opinions, we are allowed to say it out loud. And it is amazing to say that there are still people in this world willing to sacrifice their life and time away from their own families in order to give us yet another peaceful day in this country.

I am honored to live in the United States and to be an American citizen. I am blessed to wake up, every day, in an imperfect, but peaceful environment. And, more than I can express, I am thankful for those men and women who make all this possible.

Happy Independence Day!