There is a lot that is right with the United States of America. I spend a fair amount of time criticizing and complaining and suggesting changes, but I consider myself enormously fortunate to live here. Millions of people are still trying to come here, and it's not just because we are nice or even welcoming. It's the land of opportunity; the greatest meritocracy in the history of the world. It's not a perfect meritocracy of course--there is a reason you still sometimes hear about the old boys network and glass ceilings. But name a better meritocracy out there. Of course, there is none. And if there ever is one, we will know, because that's where the majority of immigrants will be heading.

Where else but America would two people make unimaginably large fotunes and then give most of it away? The $60 billion (plus or minus) Gates Foundation is bigger than the GNP of 150+ countries.

I am proud (not in a seven deadly sins way, but proud nonetheless) to be a citizen of the United States of America, despite our shortcomings as a country.

The U.S. Flag I fly every day in front of our house reminds me how thankful I should be for the sacrifices of the people who created this country and defended it, and those who continue to defend it.

Here are some suggested "Happy Birthday America" activities:

1. Read the preamble (it's just three lines) to the constitution of the United States. I think of it as our mission statement...great stuff to which we should all aspire. I memorized it once, and will hopefully do so again. Read the Bill of Rights while you're at it.

2. Read something by David McCullough, perhaps his biography of John Adams, or perhaps "1776." McCullough brings to life the people who started it all. Perhaps most remarkable is their youth--for example, Jefferson was 34 years old when he wrote the Declaration of Independence (which Adams wanted to call the "Declaration of Independency"). And when they said "...we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor" they were not kidding...they all were committing treason, and therefore could be hanged, according to the King.