What Is Right About America

In my last blog I mentioned a direction the United States has taken that could prove detrimental to the future of our country.  On this July 4th weekend, I'd like to call to attention some things that are still right about America.
At the time of this writing, we Americans still enjoy free elections.  To quote Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton (not something I do very often), "...we are Americans and we have a right to disagree with any administration."  If we disagree with the direction our leaders are taking the country, we can let our voices be heard through elections.
Another thing that is still right about America is the fact that we have the freedom to worship the god of our choosing or no god at all if we so desire.  As I have stated before, the United States was formed by Christians and that is why we have freedom of religion.  Jesus Christ stated, "I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me" (John 14:6) but his followers will not persecute those who do not see that truth.  How many Islamic countries have this freedom of religion?
This afternoon as I sit at my computer typing my thoughts for anyone to read, I am especially thankful for our freedom of speech.  We have a freedom to write and say virtually anything we wish, without fear of reprisal from our government.  While much of the media has a left-wing bias, we have the option to pursue other avenues of information.  Some countries only have State Controlled Media as a source of information.
Last, but certainly not least, I would like to salute the men and women of our armed forces, without whom none of these freedoms would be possible.  For lack of time and fear of leaving someone out, I am not going to list the names of those just from my family who have fought for our freedom - some who gave the ultimate sacrifice.  I am forever in debt to those great Americans and hope I will honor them by exercising my freedoms in a responsible manner.  Freedom is never purchased, but is a lease that must be paid for by each generation.