For your mental health and mine, I’m focusing on the Fourth of July joy instead of current craziness. I woke up this morning with what some people consider the unofficial National Anthem, “God Bless America” running through my mind. With the help of 1998 American founded Google, I learned the beautiful song was written in 1918 by Israel born composer, Irving Berlin. He wrote it at the age of 18, the same year he started his military career and became a U.S. Citizen.

Berlin revised the song in 1938. In a 1940’s interview, he said, “It’s not a patriotic song, but an expression of gratitude for what this country has done for its citizens, of what home really means.”

For approximately 15 years after 9/11, it was performed at all Major League Baseball All-Star and playoff games in the United States. Throughout our country, marching bands, pop stars, orchestras, and operas give life to the vibrant song. It’s magical sound and lyrics make us applaud, throw hats in the air, hug, laugh, cry, and most importantly, feed our souls.

A friend born in India, who came to the United States at the age of ten with her parents, also became a citizen at the age of 18. She seriously studied for the test, but missed one question; “What is the official motto of the United States of America?” All guests at our breakfast table were American born except for her, and only one person knew the answer she will never forget—“In God We Trust.”

She continued, “At the ceremony, I put my hand on my heart, and together we said the Pledge of Allegiance. As soon as it was over, I rushed to the courthouse, registered to vote, and signed up for jury duty. They said I would be called when it was my turn, and I said, “Put me on the list as soon as possible, please.” Her eyes sparkled at the memory.

Her story touched my heart.
Join me, loyal readers. Stand and sing.

God Bless America
God bless America, land that I love
Stand beside her and guide her
Through the night with the light from above

From the mountains to the prairies
To the oceans white with foam
God bless America, my home sweet home

God bless America, land that I love
Stand beside her and guide her
Through the night with the light from above

From the mountains to the prairies
To the oceans white with foam
God bless America, my home sweet home

From the mountains to the prairies
To the oceans white with foam
God bless America, my home sweet home
God bless America, my home sweet home

I bet you feel better already. I do.

I wish you a grateful and safe Fourth of July.

Until the next time: Live while you live.

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