While colorful fireworks burst through the dark skies, and red, white and blue flags flap in the wind, a sense of pride swells up in me. Not an arrogant pride, but one of gratitude and appreciation. Let me tell you why.
As I sit at my computer tapping on my keyboard, comfortable in my home’s air-conditioning and other luxuries, my mind goes back to my native country of Bolivia. I go back to my birthplace, where daily protests block streets and put an abrupt halt to business. Homes where electricity, water and gas are often available for only hours at a time and are sometimes turned off completely without notice.
Schools with empty classrooms abound-teachers are marching through streets demanding a raise in pay from their monthly salary equivalent to $150. Remote areas exist where indoor plumbing and electricity are unknown, with no hope of ever enjoying these amenities that we take for granted. A government that fosters corruption and selfish ambition keeps the country stagnant. A land where a “give-me” mentality prevails over diligence and commitment.
There is no want of church services throughout the land. In every town in every city there are churches of every persuasion and size and structure. There are old church houses as well as newer modern worship centers. There are churches with gymnasiums and auditoriums that would rival a college or university campus. There are churches big and small, rich and poor. 
Thoughts and views as seen from the resident raptor. Reflecting on life and the world as I see it.
