Not the most jubilant time to be celebrating the Fourth of July – like sneaking a cake in to your great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-grandfather when he’s in intensive care – but I send my gratitude to Jefferson, Adams, Franklin, Washington and the rest. All flawed men, but enlightened ones, who dreamed of a better world, and risked everything to make their beautiful vision a reality. The democratic republic they founded was built on reason, education, and courage. And yes, idealism, but with a clear understanding of human nature, with its vulnerabilities to self-interest and corruption. Their wisdom, conduct, and informed planning have sustained this country for the better part of two-and-a-half centuries. Send your prayers for Great-Great-Great-Great-Great-Great-Great-Great-Grandpa, and happy birthday to the United States of America.