Sometimes it takes an event to remind us of our blessings.

John McCain’s death was one of those events for me.

When he announced his run for the presidency in 2008, he said this:

“Since I owe this country much more than she owes me, I’m announcing my candidacy for the presidency of the United States.”

It’s easy to get caught up in what’s wrong with the United States.  It’s popular to ruminate about it.

But, our country is a place where others aspire to live.  You see people arrive here who can’t speak the language and with no money in their pockets.  But through hospitality and opportunity, they make a home and career.

Education is free here.  Resources are ample here.  Opportunities abound.  It’s the greatest place to live.

McCain oozed patriotism.  He reminded us of “love of country” with his words and actions.  Over 60 years of public service reinforced his rhetoric.

Whatever your politics, McCain commanded respect.  Another snippet I heard this morning from one of the many tributes on television:

“We are Americans first.  We are Americans last.  We are Americans always.”