I woke up early this morning and drove up Route 66 to watch the sun rise. There was hardly any traffic, and the grounds were blanketed lightly by a bit of evaporating dew. As I sat there, listening to the chorus of bird songs gaining momentum, in this the heartland of America where I have made my home the couple of years, I am struck by the simplicity that has made this nation amazing. How many generations have woken up to a similar dawn, astounded by the sublime tranquility of this land? We have come to celebrate America with gusto and much fanfare, with rockets red glare, and fireworks bursting in air. Yet, this morning, on the birthday of the nation, I am reminded of its quiet strength. What makes this country great is it vastness, the raw potential it promises. There is richness of the land that invites us to work together in humble labour, to toil and reap from the soil.

As the darkness quietly surrender to the advancing wash of the morning rays, I felt the same hope and optimism that must have inspired the forefathers when they sought to unify this nation. With liberty and equality, and a chance at happiness for all. As roudy as the day promises to get, take a moment and appreciate this land. Happy birthday America.