Independence Day

Happy Independence Day! 1776 to 2024!

We live in an era where people proclaim their gender(s) and political beliefs before they express gratitude for living in a free country.

If I am asked how I identify, my answer is “patriot.” According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary: a patriot is “a person who loves their country and is ready to boldly support and defend it.”

Lately, however, my pride has been tested. There are anti-semitic protests, lawlessness, vandalism, and homelessness on universities and in cities in California and across the United States.

However, as an incurable cancer patient and a Jew, I feel so many emotions all at once: It’s easy to find clarity and truth buried in narrow viewpoints, ignorance, and so much background noise. I shut out fear and focus on pride.

As a patriot, I am more emboldened and confident about my viewpoints. I LOVE being an American, even though we have so many problems AND I have fierce pride and love for Israel, my ancestral home.

Don’t be afraid to proclaim your patriotism. it’s not xenophobic to root for your country and wave the flag. Have you seen soccer game fans? They sing their anthems, wave their flags, paint their faces, and live and die with each goal scored.

Being a Jew and not knowing when the cancer returns heightens my emotions, and creates deep and unwavering loyalty to a cause, and/or adherence to lofty ideals.

I suggest you find that patriot within yourself, in spite of the many distractions and mixed messages that create unnecessary conflicts, rancor and irrational anger.

Celebrate your freedom and your health! Your most precious gifts.

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Scenes from the 75th annual Coronado Independence Day Parade, This is an unabashedly patriotic tradition—after all—Coronado is a Navy town that also supports all their veterans..