We are so blessed to live in this country. It is Patriot Day today. A sad day to remember. I love this country. After spending a little time outside of this country, it’s easy to realize that what we have here is precious. We are able to worship however we want. We are free to stay up late, or get up early. We are given privileges and so much comfort right at our fingertips. How quickly we can have anything we desire right here and right now. Clean water. Free public bathrooms! Are these important to you? They sure are to me! Many generations of my family members have fought for this country. My family has sacrificed and even died to protect what we have here and I am so grateful for them.

Many people choose to complain about what we do not have and – sure – there are things that we can work on as a community and as a society, but honestly after spending time in other parts of the world, to me this country is a treasure. I am grateful for what we have here.

Being able to sing about our independence, and about the beauty we have in this country is a privilege. Being able to sing and praise God is truly a blessing. Being free to sing about what we have been given and the opportunities we have to visit and enjoy so many beautiful rivers, waterfalls, forests and scenic prairie lands is so inspiring! Sailing the open sea, and climbing a mountain top is all here waiting for us to experience. Visiting national parks to see God’s creations is a blessing. 

No wonder so many inspiring songs have been written about our country. I’ve always enjoyed singing “God Bless The USA” by Lee Greenwood. You can go here to listen. 

If tomorrow all the things were gone
I’d worked for all my life
And I had to start again
With just my children and my wife

I’d thank my lucky stars
To be living here today
Cause the flag still stands for freedom
And they can’t take that away

And I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me

And I gladly stand up
Next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA

From the lakes of Minnesota
To the hills of Tennessee
Across the plains of Texas
From sea to shining sea

From Detroit down to Houston,
And New York to L.A
Well there’s pride in every American heart
And its time we stand and say

That I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me

And I gladly stand up
Next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA

And I’m proud to be and American
Where at least I know I’m free.
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me

And I gladly stand up
Next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA