Gawd Bless America

I don't mean to be disrespectful to America by using Gawd instead of God. It's just that I don't believe in God the way I used to, and I think the U.S. is far too governed by the religious Far Right.

But I DO want America to be recognized on its Independence Day for what it is, or what I perceive it to be.

I believe it is a collection of individuals who together are beautiful and intelligent and feeling, far beyond what its government indicates at any given time.

And it's those individuals -- many of whom I have met blogging -- and the great masses of its populace that I want to salute.

And I want to say you really ARE among the most advanced, feeling, strong people on the planet.

We couldn't do this without you.

Thank you for being there and, specifically, for being Canada's neighbor. We may whine and complain about you being a monumental pain in the ass sometimes, but we love you.

Just try not to step us on too much. And happy birthday.