America's birthday came and went a couple of weeks ago as I and many others were out of town on the annual summer vacation. Even though the Fourth of July with its picnics and fireworks has passed, it is never too late to take pride in being an American.
Recently one of our employees from the Philippines, Greg Tan (and his family), received their American citizenship, and we all joined together to commemorate this event.
Many of us born here take our citizenship for granted. But for those from other countries who find it a goal and choose to pursue it, the appreciation is far greater.
As we celebrated with Greg, it reminded us of all the benefits we have here in the "greatest country in the world." Here is a poem that was read to Greg at his party.
Now you are one of us, American through and through. Not born in the USA, But with a citizenship brand new.
Congratulations! Hip, Hip Hooray, To each in the Greg Tan clan! May you now enjoy the privileges, Of your new adopted land.
To vote, of course, is number one, Pay taxes to "Uncle Sam." Nobody likes to do it, But we must or we're in a jam.
Liberty's statue with torch held high, Thanksgiving, July Four, Baseball, hot dogs and apple pie, With blessings more and more.
Red, white and blue our colors, The White House and Capitol, too -These you can now take pride in, As we celebrate with you.
Best wishes, friendship, peace... Today we sing your praise. Congratulations once again, And to you our glass we raise.
As we were enjoying the excitement and seeing a little of what it meant to Greg and his family to now be Americans, I was challenged to stop and take a moment to be thankful, and to remember the servicemen and women and their families who have sacrificed so much. Happy Fourth of July everyone (even though it is two weeks late)!
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