On the 4th of July

Today is the 4th of July here in the United States of America.

Well, it's the 4th of July everywhere in the world because we're all pretty much using the same calendar. 

But the 4th of July has special meaning in America because it's our nation's birthday. 240 years old! Can you believe it? We don't look a day over 237. (I think our country may had some work done. But don't bring it up, OK? We don't want to make the United States self-conscious.) 

So kudos to the good ol' US of A for making it this far. We're always building towards greatness even as we constantly teeter-totter on the edge of self-destruction. 

It does seem that the nation stands on a precipice, closer to the edge that at any point in my memory. If America succumbs to the darker demons of fear, hate and ignorance, well, it was a good run while it lasted. On the other hand, if we as a country can rise up and follow our better angels, the United States of America will stand strong and endure for ages to come, a beacon of promise and a land abundant with the opportunities to make those promises come true. 

Everyone, be good to one another.  

Superman art by Jerry Ordway