Happy Birthday and Thanks, America!

In the last month I've been thinking a lot about things for which I am grateful. I think of G-d's presence in my life, good health, family, friends, my neurosurgeon. The list is long and not a day goes by without my thanks for all of them. But I would be beyond remiss to omit my gratitude for my country.  

My mother's parents came to this country from Russia and Poland in 1905. My father's parents came to America in August, 1914, just before the start of the First World War. My grandfather was already a refugee from Russia who lived in France when he decided to come to America. He and my grandmother had just been married. Many of our relatives did not come to America and only a small number survived World War II. Though the depression years here were difficult, the alternative is unthinkable.

My infinite gratitude, America! You gave my family a safe home, the ability to earn a living, to participate in a free society and to worship without restriction. Happy 236th birthday and wishes for many, many more!