A Renewed Sense of Patriotism (a quick stateside blurb)

Let me tell you, as a PCV, there is nothing better than being in America for the 4th of July.  I mean, as far as holidays go, I'd rather have Christmas at home...or Thanksgiving...or Easter, but the 4th of July ain't half bad.  So you can trust that today will be filled with plenty of....eating (and maybe a sparkler or two).

The 4th of July was never something I celebrated with much gusto.  Honestly, I used to think "Why celebrate a country with so many issues?"  How could I celebrate a country involved in things like the military industrial complex, filled with corrupt politicians, and who still can't seem to grasp the concept of equality for all?  But today I realized why I should celebrate this incredible country.

I KNOW about all (well, at least most of) these things with which I happen to disagree.  I can talk about it and post facebook statuses about it and say whatever I want.  These are not rights and freedoms granted to every country in the world.  So believe me, us Americans have a lot to be grateful for.

So no matter where you stand in American politics, please just take this day to remember the great things about our country.  It's remembering our strengths that will help us repair our weaknesses.

AND EAT SOME BARBECUE!!!!!!!!!!