Happy 250th Birthday to our beloved United States. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been born into a country that, throughout much of my life, has offered peace, opportunity, and the freedoms so many around the world continue to fight for.

Alongside that gratitude, however, I also carry deep concern. As I watch the growing polarization and the erosion of institutions and rights that have long defined our democracy, I find myself feeling ashamed, angry, and, at times, scared. Now more than ever, we must hold tightly to the ideals set forth in our Constitution and our Declaration of Independence.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

These words are a promise that each generation is called to protect. We do that by voting for leaders who uphold our democratic values, by speaking out when those values are threatened, and by showing kindness and compassion to our friends, neighbors, and communities. Even the smallest acts of care strengthen the fabric of our country.

Our Mood of the Month is Playful. Why? Because choosing joy, curiosity, laughter, and connection is an act of optimism. Playfulness reminds us of what we’re fighting to preserve: the freedom to gather, create, celebrate, dream, and pursue happiness together. In challenging times, protecting our capacity for joy is one way we nurture hope for the future.

Wishing you a joyful, playful, and meaningful July.