I always put out my American flag on Flag Day. It is something my family always did when I was young and now, I continue that family tradition. It is a ritual that makes me reflect upon the ideals upon which our country was founded and that I still believe in.

In a time when America's reputation has been tarnished at home and abroad because some of our leaders have lost their way, I love this simple, patriotic holiday that honors our national symbol. It makes me remember all the good things about my country. I think about the ideal of freedom and justice for all. I remember that I can speak my mind, even if my ideas are unpopular or disagree with those in power. I think about the the ideal that all men and women are created equal. I think about all the opportunity and rewards that a fast-held dream and hard work can deliver to many of us. I think about all the New Americans, many of whom risked everything to come here, who are building new, successful lives here. I think about all the progress we have made toward living up to all of these ideals that our country embodies and the new opportunities we continue to have to do better.

In spite of everything, in spite of our present government who seems to have forgotten too much of what it is that has made this country great, in spite of all that we need to fix and renew for America to regain her place as the shining beacon of freedom to the rest of the world, I still love this country very much.

Happy Flag Day!