I do not want to be negligent of the day’s significance nor take for granted the rights, freedoms and privileges granted to me as an American; so before the day ends, I wish to thank the families of the men and women who have given their lives in service to their country.  The high price of their death validates and dictates the tremendous worth of America’s freedom.  Thank you.  May I, may we as Americans not take our freedom for granted.

I confess that I do not always like being “different” as an American living in Brazil, but I have also never felt more proud to be an American than when there.  My blue eyes and American accent mark strong differences from those around me, but so also do the privileges, opportunities, and freedoms available to me as an American.  May my loyalties be as easily identified as my heritage.

Brazilians have taught me a lot about patriotism.  They are passionate about Brazil and fiercely loyal to her (especially the soccer team!).  They literally show their true colors by displaying the flag and its colors everywhere and on everything: shirts, shoes, street walls, etc.

How very different from the U.S. where too often we see people burning the flag, the emblem the very freedom which allows them to do so.  I do not deny that we have, at times, erred and struggled at times as country, but many of our internal struggles result from the delicate balance of freedom democracy offers.  Instead of criticizing our country and its leaders, may we strive to work together to preserve our unity as a nation and rightly honor our governing authorities.  Today especially may we honor the men and women who served the country by the greatest means possible, by giving their lives for her.

Long may she continue to stand.  God bless the U.S.A.!