Independence Day 2009

Our home in Hawaii was at the mouth of Pearl Harbor. We used to go to the harbor and watch boats come in and out and watch big, I mean big, aircraft carriers come in after months at sea. And when we were there last week, we saw this submarine come in. I wonder how long they were out at sea?

Most of you know how patriotic I am, though I have to say that most people would not understand why. And neither do I. I was not born in the States. I didn’t even live in the States for an extended period of time until I was about 14 years old. Then as an adult, I spent most of my time overseas. I was married while in Germany and both my kids were born in Japan.

So where does this come from?

I have to say that geography does not matter. The ideals of the US stand for themselves. It’s the ideals that the Founding Fathers eschew. The ones that give us our precious freedom that people in other parts of the world where those rights are restricted can only dream of.

And history, you must study history. For it’s history that will explain this to you…

That America – in spite of the accusations of imperialism by small-hearted people – it’s true – fought the biggest imperialist nations for her freedom.

Yet America – can put those conflicts aside and still be allies and friends with those same nations. She is a  nation who is chronologically young but ideologically mature.

That America – spilled precious American blood since her inception as a nation, for the freedom of others.

That America – fights for the rights of her allies and friends, with that same American blood still.

That America – alone – is where people risk their own blood to come to make their own dreams come true. Just ask those Haitians and Cubans in the row boats out in the Atlantic – some there right now.

That America – spends her resources on security that our allies (in spite or our differences) know will be used for their freedom if ever the time came.

That America – in spite of what other people will tell you, is not the problem.

And it’s because the solutions, as elusive as they seem, can be sought here. Can be debated here. Can be found here. And can happen here.

I have learned over the years to always count my blessings. To never take my circumstances, whatever they are, for granted. To know that I am not where the world starts and end. To know that I am small.

And that’s okay with me. I know this may sound slightly defensive. But it’s only because I don’t think enough people stand for her. In some circles, it’s fashionable to bash her.

Happy birthday America. Stand tall.