Peace comes with a tremendous price. My last article focused on the price of peace and the cost of war: the loss and injury of human lives, the breaking apart of families and businesses, and so much more.
This July, we celebrate the 250th birthday of our nation. While we are aware each day that conflict and unhappiness exist in our country, we also need to remind ourselves of the many reasons we have to celebrate what is right and good about America.
Each day, we choose what we think about. The brain is a remarkable creation, and it often acts in tandem with our thoughts. As wonderful as the brain is, it does not always distinguish between what is real and what is not. Have you ever had a dream so powerful and emotional that when you woke up, your emotional state felt as if the dream had actually happened?
I use this example to explain how the mind and brain are two separate forces that impact our lives. If you choose to believe that nearly everything is wrong with our country, your words and actions will often reflect that belief.
Personally, I acknowledge that there are many problems. But I also choose to believe there is so much to be grateful for. We live in a nation that allows citizens to express their opinions, worship freely, and pursue lives rooted in peace and purpose.
Furthermore, I believe that our life on earth is temporary, and that we have the opportunity to worship God, who blesses our lives and our nation when we uphold His values and honor His Son, who died so that we may have eternal life in the presence of God.
Many countries do not allow freedom of worship. If for no other reason than this, we should count our blessings that we live in the United States of America. Generations of our families have served our country and given their lives to uphold this freedom.
I have shared why I will celebrate our nation’s historic birthday. I challenge each of you to use your mind to focus on what is good, to desire a life of peace and purpose, and to choose to be of value to others. Use your blessings as a witness to your faith and values.
One reason we desire to help our clients make wise financial decisions is connected to this very purpose. It is difficult to help others fully when you are struggling with your own financial matters.
Pray for the strength to make good choices and pray that the peace and freedom of our nation will continue as we celebrate this historic birthday of the USA.
The religious concepts noted represent the personal convictions of the author. Neither New York Life Insurance Company nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates endorse any religious position.
*Thomas Herlong is Financial Adviser offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser and a Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/SIPC), 424 Calhoun Street, Johnston SC, 29832, 803-275-5090. A Licensed Insurance Agency. Eagle Strategies and NYLIFE Securities are New York Life Companies. Thomas Herlong does not provide individualized tax or legal advice. Please consult with your tax advisor or attorney regarding your individual circumstances.
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