We were the envy of the neighborhood. Our neighbors watched us ride in a cab toward the airport. We were leaving Bolivia and heading to the land where dreams come true.
And along with dreams, integrity fueled my father to enter the U.S. with documents in hand, sacrifice in his heart, and commitment in his resolve.
Now, years later, as naturalized citizens, each 4th of July fireworks of gratitude explode in me.
Yes, America has her issues, problems and struggles. But to me and my family, it is still the greatest country on earth. And America is uniquely special as he is the place where her founders honored God above all.
Through the years living in our new home, we learned the joy of prosperity and also the sadness of trials. But how sweet to know that mountaintop episodes make us grateful, but rough valleys make us grow.
Read more via Grateful to be an American | Janet Perez Eckles.

