While watching the 4th of July fireworks from the beach with several thousand of my follow Angelenos, I felt a great sense of community - as well as fun. And hearing our young grandsons tell us, with such glee, about how they had ridden their bikes - without training wheels! - in their local Independence Day parade, I thought, what a glorious day.

Although scrolling through the news on the internet or watching it on television may sometimes leave you with a deep sense of sadness and dread, getting out in your community can revive your feelings of joy. Sharing an event like the 4th of July with neighbors, friends and family brings into clear focus the values we all hold dear - our love of country and the gratitude we feel for the freedoms and liberty it affords us. How about you?