I know every country, even ours, has its problems.

Gas prices are outrageous. Food prices are through the ceiling. Affordable health care is an oxymoron. By the time I get around to needing it, all that money I've put into Social Security since I was 15 years old may well be gone.

Still, I think we have it a lot better than many other places.

I thought about this while I was sitting in church last Sunday. It struck me how lucky I was to be sitting in a pew with my family, worshipping in the way we chose, and to not have to be afraid of persecution.

I continued thinking about these "little freedoms" throughout the week. I can get in my car and go anywhere I want anytime I want. I have a job where I am paid decently and I am not abused. My husband and I are true equals in our household; I don't have to live in fear in my home.

I am able to read any books, magazines or newspapers I choose. I have unlimited access to food, medication and other necessities of life.

I admit I am guilty of taking these wonderful things for granted every now and then ... and of forgetting that people had to fight wars and make unimagineable sacrifices to make them possible for me.

Today, Independence Day, I am thinking of all those people, and I am infinitely grateful to them and their families. I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all the veterans ... of the Revolutionary War to the current War in Iraq ... for their courage, dedication and commitment to our country.

I am in awe of all of you.