As we approach July 4^th, the state of the greatest country in the world is on my mind. It saddens me to say what I’m about to say, but I believe it to be the truth.

Our political system is broken.

You have to be a millionaire or very close to one to be elected to a national office these days. If you’re not a millionaire when you get into office, you certainly will be when  you leave.

I don’t know about you but I don’t have a lot in common with millionaires. They don’t have to worry about the price of gas or health care or….the list could go on but you get my point.

The political system has created a huge division in this country.  It’s created a hatred that makes no sense. We aren’t supposed to hate people who have different ideas than us. It seems as if we aren’t allowed differing opinions any longer. If you aren’t part of my political party, then you are wrong and a horrible person.

I remember being taught in school (I believed it then and still do) that I might not agree with what you say or believe but I will defend your right to say it.

That’s the America I grew up in!

I still love my country! But sometimes it’s hard to recognize it among all the hatred, divisiveness, and ridiculous arguments that abound. This July 4^th let’s get back to the basics that our country was founded on. Free Speech. Respect for each other. Tolerance for different opinions.

I’m not sure how to fix our broken political system but I do know that  we need something to change.  Our government needs to be of the people, by the people and for the people as Abraham Lincoln stated in the Gettysburg Address.

Happy Birthday, America!