Dear Angela,

Dear eight year old Angela,
You are not going to marry your dad. It wouldn't have worked out anyway, as he already has your mom. I'm sorry.
Love, Angela

Dear twelve year old Angela,
You are not going to marry Yale Hamrick. It wouldn't have worked out anyway, as he never really knew who you were, and you never had a class together after eighth grade. I'm sorry.
Love, Angela

Dear fifteen year old Angela,
You are not going to marry Jonny Lang. It wouldn't have worked out anyway, as he is a world famous guitar player, and quite beyond your reach. I'm sorry.
Love, Angela

Dear seventeen year old Angela,
You are going to marry Joe Vann. Don't do anything stupid like break up with him out of teenage frustration or argue about things that don't matter. Tread carefully and take care of him. CONGRATULATIONS!
Love, Angela

Dear Americans,

Dear Americans,
Contrary to popular belief, today is not about iconographic symbols like our flag or George Washington. Today is about bucking the system, and rallying together to kick ass and get what we want. Perhaps this is selfish, but I digress.

I challenge you today: instead of pledging allegiance to our flag, pledge allegiance to the idea of raising your voice, organizing to fight for what is right, and leaving a just legacy to our children.

Help your neighbor with their chores, and when you are finished, write a letter to your congressman. Tell them you want everyone who lives under the stars and stripes to be able to receive medical attention.

Go to your bar-b-q. Recycle your beer bottles.

Turn down Lee Greenwood and crank up Rage Against the Machine.

Love,
A Patriot