Our Big, Beautiful America

As we started counting down to America’s 250th year of independence this 4th of July, it has become clear that America is back!

And just in time, too. I’m so thankful.

Brenda, Bliss, and I celebrated our country last weekend with each of our families. Each time we gather, we’re so grateful for what we have.

We were tragically reminded of how blessed we are after seeing the images and hearing the stories of the flooding going on in the Hill Country.

There is so much sadness there (and all over America) as we discover just how many lives were impacted.

There are no words to make things better. I can’t imagine what they’re going through. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

I think it’s only natural that, in the midst of tragedy and heartbreak, we cherish what we have even more. We cling tighter to loved ones. And we strengthen our resolve to make every day count.

We remember that we are surrounded by the best people, the most incredible first responders, and the greatest economy in the world. We can’t take these things for granted. Maybe we have in recent years – but we can’t continue to do so.

We cannot forget that our forefathers founded this country on ideals that have endured over generations. And while it hasn’t been perfect, we’re striving for a more perfect union.

And in that spirit, I think our big, beautiful America is in a better place this year after big policy shifts. I believe those policy shifts will help this country remain strong. Here are 3 reasons why:

1- The focus is back on America(ns). Did you see how many jobs have gone to American-born workers this year? The data shows over 2 million. That’s a massive win for citizens here.

It’s also true that legal immigration is important for our economy, and I hope we continue to support foreign-born workers who come into the country legally. But proper vetting at our borders appears to be back, and that’s a win for our safety, security, and economy.

2- Peace. It’s hard to argue that the Middle East isn’t safer (and the U.S. along with our allies, too) after Iranian nuclear sites were taken out.

Have you seen what happened with India and Pakistan? What about strides happening with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo?

Nothing is certain. Nothing is perfect. And I have no clue how long it will last.

But in each case, America was decisive about helping to bring peace. I’m not saying we should be the world’s police or get involved in everyone else’s messes. Far from it.

But a safer, more secure world means prosperity for American businesses and investors alike. 

3- The Big, Beautiful Bill. There are so many things to say about the bill that I’ll devote an entire post to it soon (possibly as an email only for current clients).

Here, I’ll simply point out that if the tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act had reverted back to the old system, many middle-class folks would’ve seen a tax increase.

The bill preserves the current tax brackets. It actually increases the lifetime gift and estate tax exclusion. It also preserves the standard deduction and provides an extra $6,000 deduction for seniors.

These our big wins for our clients. We’re in a better place than we were just a few months ago.

America is back on track. And, again, nothing is certain. Nothing is perfect. Tariffs may come back into play. Wars may happen. Things will go wrong (as they have for so many over this holiday weekend).

For now, we’ll be thankful for all of our blessings. We’ll cherish our loved ones. And we’ll enjoy making some hay while markets are high and the sun is still shining this summer in our big, beautiful America.