Today is my birthday.

My mother enjoys telling me that I stood at the gate of our backyard inspecting the presents from guests to my second birthday party. She has pictures to prove it.

Along with conveying my apologies for all past episodes of rampant birthday greed, I would like to share a few birthday wishes today.

 

I wish for an economy which provides people who work full time adequate income to support their families.

I wish for a public education system that inspires our children to believe that hard work is rewarded and that learning is one of life’s greatest joys.

I wish for Bill Gates to receive a Nobel prize for his work with the Gates Foundation.

I wish for us to respect the “for all” part of our pledge to: “one Nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all.”

I wish for Lebron James to bring an NBA championship to Cleveland.

I wish for more servant leaders who see the truth and speak the truth.

My last birthday wish is for the gift of appreciating the many everyday moments that occur in between the few special occasions.