Intro:
Every Fourth of July brings with it more than fireworks and flags—it brings reflection. For me and my family, this day is a reminder that freedom isn’t just an idea, it’s a reality we prayed for, waited for, and worked for. As an immigrant father and a lifelong believer in divine purpose, I wrote this for my children, as a quiet reminder of where we came from, what we’ve been given, and why I remain grateful for this land of promise.
Main Post:
We are immigrants, you and I. We waited 15 long years before our U.S. visa was approved. And when we finally arrived, I didn’t start in a fancy office—I started by hauling office furniture off 30-wheelers in Burbank from 4 PM to midnight, earning $4.25 an hour.
Hard work was not an option—it was survival. But in this country, effort doesn’t go unnoticed. I went back to school, studied IT, and eventually earned a degree in Management in Telecommunications. No shortcuts, just faith, sweat, and purpose.
In the words of Paul H. Dunn:
“We are immigrants, you and I, because the Lord made immigrants of us and brought us here. We have done as well as could be expected, and are richly blessed despite our shortcomings because the Lord has thus far held us in His hands and worked His purposes, His ultimate purpose, through us. We’re wanderers, you and I.”
This nation welcomed me. And in return, I gave it my best. I built a career, provided for my family, and used my knowledge to bless others. Not as a way to boast—but as a testimony of what’s possible when freedom is honored and faith is kept.
President Thomas S. Monson once declared:
“When we safeguard the heavenly virtue of freedom, when we honor it, when we protect it, we will walk with Washington, we will pray with patriots, and we shall have peace on earth, good will to men.”
And as N. Eldon Tanner taught:
“We are all a part of America’s future. Our job is to learn and benefit from the past and to go forward in righteousness, keeping the commandments of God.”
My story is not unique—but it is deeply personal. I share it today not only as a celebration of America, but as an invitation to never take freedom for granted.
To all those I love and care about: your future in this land is filled with promise—but always remember where we came from, and how far we’ve come.
This is the land of the free.
This is the home of the brave.
And I am forever grateful to be part of it.
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