Days like this make me stop and reflect about just how good I have it here. Through the Revolution, the Civil War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, our brave service men and women have given their blood, sweat, and tears to allow the rest of us to swear obscenities against our leaders, grill our hot dogs and hamburgers, plug in our cell phone amplifiers, and worship our God however and whenever we please without fear of arrest and retribution.

Our great nation was born out of pain, and our growth continues to be painful. But despite outrageous gas prices, too much homelessness, and senseless gang violence, we are still the best country in the world.

Thank you, veterans, for your service. Thank you, friends and family members, for enduring the unimaginable fear while your loved ones are deployed. It is because of you that the beauty shines in those spectacular fireworks displays. You remain in my thoughts and prayers daily. God bless you all.