Happy 4th of July everyone! 🇺🇸

I’m feeling especially grateful today. I’m proud to be an American — proud of the freedoms we have and the opportunities this country has given me and my family.

This year feels especially meaningful as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

I’ve also been blessed to live in other countries for extended periods of time. I spent three years in China, two years in Mexico, and a year in Costa Rica. Those experiences gave me a deep appreciation for other cultures and opened my heart in ways I’ll never forget.

One of the most meaningful times was living among the Amuzgo people in Tlacoachistlahuaca, Guerrero. Their kindness and warmth have stayed with me all these years.

Costa Rica holds a very special place in my heart. I fell in love with the country, the culture, and the people while serving there as a missionary. I still travel back every year. It’s also where I met the most wonderful woman in the world — my wife, Ruth. She has been, and continues to be, a blessing to me and to everyone she touches.

Recently in Mexico, we had the chance to teach some orphans how to repair a fishing rod and took them fishing. Moments like that remind me that reaching our hands across the border and giving back is also part of being a good American.

Today I’m celebrating this country I love, while carrying deep gratitude for the people and places that have shaped who I am.

Today I’m especially thankful for the men and women of our armed forces, both past and present, who have given us the sweet gift of freedom we enjoy here in the United States.

Wishing you all a safe, joyful, and meaningful 4th of July with your families and friends. God bless America!

#Happy4thOfJuly #America250 #FourthOfJuly #ProudToBeAnAmerican #Grateful #GodBlessAmerica #July4th #FriedmanAdventures