Independence Day is this week, on this coming Friday. As it nears and we approach our 249th birthday, I feel there is much to celebrate. Although I have many concerns both here at home and abroad, celebrating America’s birthday should be a time for all Americans to celebrate the greatness of our country. I am the second generation born here, as my paternal grandparents emigrated here from Albania back in the 1930’s. My grandfather always spoke passionately about the beauty of America, and how it truly was the land of opportunity. He came here poor and knowing little English, but that didn’t stop him from working hard, earning a living, starting a family and then starting his own business which would blossom into a thriving health care entity that lasted over 40 years. I had the opportunity to work for the company for 20 years, and although the business eventually sold under a diminished status due to some family infighting, the fact that he was able to build what he built is both a testament to him and the country he did it in. He was always so grateful and appreciative of what he was able to build, having the perspective of what life was like and how challenging it was growing up in Eastern Europe under Communism. Having been born here and with the privileges that come with it, I have no idea what he suffered through before he came here. However, I vividly remember his numerous speeches and lectures when I was a boy and even a young adult that will never leave my memories. They undoubtedly had an impact on me.
So I’m taking this Fourth of July celebration to honor my grandfather and to honor the country I am truly proud to live in. I admit, sometimes I lose my perspective on things. I get angry. I get frustrated. I have lashed out at others, at times, for their opinions on the state of the country that I disagree with. I’ll get back to my usual state of mind next week (kidding….sort of). But this week, it’s all about us and the greatness in which our country represents and the pride I have in it.
Happy birthday, America.
