Freedom is a Wonderful Thing!

Today, Independence Day, I would like to comment on an article I read in the LA Times. The article, entitled "Why I came to America," told the stories of three people who immigrated to the United States in search of religious, political and economic freedom. The one story that touched me the most was that of a young Tibetan woman whose name is Ngawang Sangdrol. Sangdrol was imprisioned by the Chinese government when she was only 13, for joining demonstrations in favor of religious freedom. During the 11 years she spent in prison, she was beaten and forbidden to practice her religion. Fortunately, in 2003, Sangdrol was offered asylum in the United States. She now lives in New Jersey and rejoices about the fact that she can now practice her religion without fear of persecution.

Her story just reminds me that America is a nation whose destiny is to defend the cause of Liberty worldwide.

And as it is engraved at the bottom of the Statue of Liberty:

"For the tired, the poor, the world's huddled masses yearning to breathe free, America remains a powerful beacon of hope."

Happy Birthday USA!