Happy Fourth of July everyone.
I hope you are able to spend it in good health with family and friends.
I hope that while you watch fireworks, or eat BBQ, or spend time on the lake or on vacation around people you may not know, that you choose to acknowledge them with a wave and a smile.
I hope that you remember just how lucky you are to have all the freedoms you are blessed with as Americans.
I hope that you will spend a little time reflecting on what our forefather’s fought for — the life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness — choices that you are afforded as Americans.
I hope that if the opportunity presents itself that you will choose to take the time to listen, even if that opinion or viewpoint differs from your own, while choosing to refrain from being dismissive or argumentative.
I hope that you will remember that everyone wants to feel heard, and that it is OK to agree to disagree about politics, issues, and ideologies and choose to do so without being rude.
I hope, as Americans, we can be reminded that we live in the greatest country in the world and July 4 is the perfect day to choose to acknowledge and embrace this today and every day.
Have a great July 4 everyone, and hope to see you at the American Legion for BBQ chicken.