Today's Morning Chalkboard has all three of my
favorite holidays written on it. The Fourth of July, Thanksgiving and Mardi
Gras.
Those might seem like an odd combination
when you think about it. One celebrates the birth of a nation, one celebrates
gratitude and one celebrates joy before sacrifice.
If I had to
pick three holidays that best describe how I try to live my life, those would
probably be them.
The Fourth reminds me that freedom is never
free. It belongs to people willing to be bold enough to defend it.
Thanksgiving reminds me that no matter how
much life has given and taken away, it has always left me with something worth
giving thanks for.
Mardi Gras reminds me that laughter, good
food, good music, cigars, and one more round of Sazeracs are not distractions
from life. They are part of the reason we are here.
Maybe that is why today's quote spoke to
me… "Freedom lies in being bold..."
Not just politically, but personally.
Have the courage to say
what you believe.
Have the courage to forgive.
Have the courage to love.
Have the courage to push through.
Have the courage to laugh hysterically and cry when your heart is full.
Freedom, Gratitude and Celebration are a
pretty good recipe for a life well lived.
So
today, you Chalkheads, celebrate the positives that these past 250 years have accomplished. Never
forget that our country has always been, and always will be, a work in progress. Built on liberty,
justice, and the pursuit of happiness.
And
remember... all Sox and Cub fans are created equal.
