My Message for America on its 250th birthday

So what kind of person would I be if I did not post something commemorating the 250th birthday of the United States of America?

Yesterday, in front of a group of people, I used the following analogy when conveying my love for this country.

My parents did not always make me happy. They did not always give me what I wanted. They were probably right in most, if not all, of those instances, but that is not even the important part. What is important is that what they gave me, I could never repay. Their love and support, and everything they did to facilitate my life, could never be repaid.

I look at the United States of America in very much the same way.

It is not perfect. Nothing is. It has its problems, and there are things we see today that give us great cause for concern. But this country has provided a framework never seen anywhere else in history. It is rooted in freedom, and it is rooted in liberty. In my lifetime alone, wrongs have been made right, while others are still a work in progress.

While I do not like the message of those who scream and shout about how much they hate this country, I love the fact that we live in a country where they can do so without being arrested or killed.

While I have a problem with the message of existing and potential political leaders expressing antisemitism, I am grateful to live in a country where the vast majority of people, and most importantly the leadership of the country, prioritize our safety and well-being.

Ironically, the political strife and disagreement in this country only happen because this country provides the freedom for them to happen. Think about that the next time you want to express disdain for a nation that gives you the opportunity to do so because it allows people to live and speak freely.

Yes, there are exceptions to all these positives I speak of, and yes, these are concerning times. But to that I offer this message: throughout history, America has faced challenges. I am sure this is not the first time many people have declared, “We’re in trouble.”

But going back to the analogy of my parents, even when I might not see it, I choose to trust. I chose to trust them, and I choose to trust the United States of America.

This is arguably — some may say it is not even arguable — the best country the world has ever seen. It is not perfect. It never was, and it never will be. But for all it has offered us, and for all it has given us, and for the principles for which it stands, it has earned our affection, our appreciation, and yes, it has earned our trust.

Happy Birthday, America.