July 4: A Day for Gratitude and Dreams

A few things for which to be grateful this July 4:

• I can vote.
• I can get a driver’s license.
• Thanks to federal grants and a scholarship, I was able to get a college education.
• Most of my adult life, I’ve managed to be employed.
• I can worship God according to my conscience, desire, and faith tradition.
• I can assemble with other people to have a big meal in the park, to sing songs, to play and relax, or to discuss whatever we want.
• My great-great-grandparents came to this country to farm and work in the coal mines—thanks to them, here I am, in this country, living my life.
• My history is full of family stories, holidays with loved ones, lessons from grandparents, parents, and aunts and uncles.
• I have lived in Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois and have traveled to all the continental states, if only to pass through.
• I have known friends, family, colleagues, and members of faith communities who have gone through tough times and survived and thrived.
• Although I live in a huge city, people will still smile, say hello, and help you out.

Those are a few random thoughts from me. What does your list look like?

A few things for which I dream this July 4:

• Healthcare for every person who needs it.
• A political system that is no longer controlled by the highest bidders.
• A church that, above all, “acts justly, loves mercy, and walks humbly with God.”
• A robust conversation among faith groups across the spectrum of traditions.
• A safe home and neighborhood for every child.
• Good nutrition and education for every child.
• Equal rights to become a reality in every situation and for every person.
• More and more Christians who, like St. Ignatius, make it their driving passion to love God and “help souls.”

How about your list?

Share this:

Tagged as: gratitude