We can be thankful that God made us as unique individuals. We are unique in knowledge, talents, resources, and abilities. We can thankfully celebrate our diversity and yet, acknowledge that we are loved equally as God's children.

We can be thankful we live in a country where we have Freedom of Religion. This means whether Catholic, Protestant, Baptist, Foursquare, Assembly of God, or other faith denomination, the American Government DOES NOT tell us what our beliefs should be. Each person is free to worship, in a location they choose, as their conscience dictates.

If we are gathering to celebrate with friends and family over the holiday, we can be thankful that we are able to gather together. We have the Freedom to join publicly and privately with others to celebrate, to worship, to develop new innovations, and to even debate differences of opinion.

We can be thankful that American's 'Founding Fathers' and numerous American's since, have fought to acquire and preserve the liberty and freedoms we value in this country. The freedoms that have allowed America as a Nation to be a symbol of Hope and Prosperity to many for over 200 years.

We can be thankful that the equality expressed in the Declaration of Independence has led Americans to pass laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act. Laws that provide persons with disabilities the same rights as all people to non-discrimination, access, equality of opportunity, inclusion and full participation in society.

Whether you celebrate the 4th of July with explosions of fireworks or a bit of relaxing, we encourage you to reflect on your blessings and be thankful. We wish you joy on this Independence Day.