Happy 4th of July

So, today is the 4th of July.

About 15 years ago I decided that this was my favorite holiday. I’m not suggesting that I am more excited about the birth of America over the birth of Jesus. I just prefer fireworks to commercialism any day. In the past I have been accused of being cynical of the “American Dream” but this 4th of July while here in Africa, I would like to take a minute to reflect on what I love about my American roots and exactly what kind of Patriotism I deeply identify with.

I am a patriot….

like those adventurers who left their country of origin , to travel across vast oceans through uncharted waters in search of a new world,

Like those forefathers who had a low tolerance for corrupt government and the courage to do something about it.

Like those soldiers who studied Native Americans and quit wearing stupid red uniforms to battle.

Like those addicts who weren’t afraid to dump some fresh tea into the Harbor.

Like those freemen who gave their own lives to bring slavery to an end.

Like those dreamers who stopped shoveling horse crap long enough to invent the automobile.

Like those magicians who reworked their music again and again till it became Jazz

Like those working men who left the security of home to put an end to Nazi genocide,

Like those innovators who first played electric instruments loudly in the face of public scrutiny ,

Like those pioneers who told inside jokes from moon

Like those frustrated youth who weren’t afraid to be the first to go inverted on skateboards, motorcycles or snowboards

Like those simple kids that invented You tube

Or even like the nut cases from Jackass who revolutionized film in America. Yes their veins run with the same blood as this county’s founders in whose patriotism I celebrate.

This to me this is the American Spirit I subscribe to and the reason I call myself a Patriot.



Now, as I spend two weeks in one of the poorest communities in the world I recognize this “spirit” is not confined to the history of America..

Here in Acholi quarter, there is no household running water. Here, the sewer system consists of a hole in the ground on a down hill slope between residences. Here, my friend Jon lives with 16 others in a two room house made of mud and sticks. Here many little children run around naked because they have absolutely no clothing. Here there are multitudes of children and very few old people. Here people don’t own cars, don’t surf the Internet, don’t have health insurance or own furniture. Here they consider themselves fortunate to have employment banging rocks in dangerous conditions for pennies a day. Here, many are sick with no hope of recovery.



If I ever have seen a reason for hopelessness, it is here in Acholi Quarter. But within this community is a group of bead makers whom I recognize and honor this 4th of July.

The 30 men and women I speak of in the Acholi Beads Co-op…

Have risen above their conditions and are rewriting their legacies

They take care of one another’s children adopting those whose parents have died.

They have seized their present opportunities and now compete in the global marketplace through the sale of their beads.

They have redefined their goals and dreams yet suspend their personal needs so their children can receive an education.

They have done what few Americans do and budget their resources for the future.

They come from poverty, but are rich in ambition.

In a short time these Acholi bead makers have purchased real estate, added on to their homes, clothed their children, provided for their sphere of influence, started side businesses, furnished their homes, and now can afford health care for the medical needs of themselves and their families.

They have also welcomed us with open arms. They cook daily feasts for us sparing no expense. They kneel as they pour water over our hands before serving us food. They redefine hospitality.

This Independence day I am blessed to know the “pursuit of happiness” extends beyond the borders of America.. Though I am far from my home , I have much to celebrate this 4th of July.