1.  God

2. America.  I am exceedingly fortunate to live in this country, which is more vast and more varied than I will ever comprehend, I will probably never see the majority of it.

3. Freedom, walking relatively safe streets, driving well maintained roads.

4. Even in difficult economic times, goods are available and transported and delivered where they are accessible, services function, people are working.

5. This country was founded against overwhelming odds, soldiers enduring hardship, rough climate, lack of supplies and defeating a vastly superior army.  Persisted through an incomprehensibly destructive war of citizens fighting against each other.  Fought back when attacked and threatened, with extraordinary courage and sacrifice.  And women and men in uniform continue to serve and sacrifice today for America.

6. I can say what I want to say and write what I want to write, although it is a limited freedom

7. Safe drinking water, availability of medicine, doctors, nurses – not everyone is so fortunate to have these things.  Thinking of my friends’ daughter coming back from an extended stay in another less developed country, drinking from the drinking fountain in the airport and sobbing with gratitude.

8. Electrical power and heat

9. Cities, mountains, flatlands, coastline

10. I could remark on how many aspects of America do not work in reality for many people, the history of cruelty and crime that pervades throughout, the failings of government, the wrongness of this or that.  You and I could argue about these things to a greater or lesser degree and either walk away or continue the conversation, which is another freedom.  And finally I have to accept how little I know and look for ways to create positive change for myself and others in my life, which starts with gratitude.  Happy Birthday America, Happy 4th of July everyone.  (I think my wife is making patriotic deviled eggs.)