Flags, parades, and Uncle Sam. It can only mean one thing: it is time to celebrate the 4th of July. If you're an American, this is a very special day and deserves a very special celebration. I have always loved the fact that in cities and town from New York City to Gahanna, Ohio you can count on high school bands, mayors and local beauty contestants to all march (or wave from a convertible) their down main street.

It is tradition.  It is collective joy. It is America.

This year I am going to offer a challenge. Enjoy your picnics, parades and family gatherings, but more important than all of that, take a few minutes to thank God for how He has blessed America and ask Him to guide and direct this country in all that is done. No one of us is smart enough to guide America into the future without the help of God.

The second challenge? I am asking that you take a few minutes and review the document that started all of this. Read the Declaration of Independence, not a summary, not someone's commentary, by the actually document. I am providing a link below.

https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript

This nation can only survive if we cling to the principles upon which it was built. Enjoy the festivities but never forget what makes America, America. The principles, the documents, those who gave their lives, and those who have or are currently serving in the armed service. America is a wonderful tapestry of people and principles held together as one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all.