I’ve flown in and out of Orange County, CA’s John Wayne Airport so many times in the past couple of months that I’ve lost count. I made it a habit a few years ago to stop by the larger-than-life John Wayne statue, with the huge garrison flag as it’s backdrop every few trips to the airport, just to reflect on the love and gratitude I have for our country.

Despite our shortcomings, I’m struck that we remain an inspiration to people from around the world. I love to travel and experience different cultures, and can’t think of a country (in the several dozen I’ve visited) that I wouldn’t mind visiting again. But I can’t think of another country that offers the combination of scenic beauty, political stability, positive spirit, and entrepreneurial opportunity that we have here in the U.S. For that, I am eternally thankful.

I was reminded of this again tonight as I attended a small private concert with 70s and 80s rock legend Eddie Money (more about this in a later post), who played an amazing tribute to our selfless men and women who have served (are serving) us in military uniform. I understand that we can’t all agree on political issues and religious beliefs, but I thank God that I live in a country where we can openly discuss and debate the most important issues of our time.