A special thank-you to...

"Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time;
for that's the stuff life is made of."

- Benjamin Franklin

Hi John,

Your post reminds me of two of my favorite American cities....

I haven't spent much time in Philadelphia, but to me, it has a special "aura" about it. The Liberty Bell, and the presence of Benjamin Franklin, through institutions like the University of Philadelphia (which he proposed), and the Franklin Institute. Benjamin Franklin is one of my heroes - he was a true genius, a great scientist, businessman, and statesman. I also love the cobblestone walkways in that "old" area near the Liberty Bell....

Another city I enjoy is Boston - I spent several months working there (visiting Boston University), spread over 1999-2000. You can walk along the "Freedom Trail", and see the buildings still standing, which were such a part of creating America's Independence. Just walking along those paths takes your mind back to those times.... The Boston Tea Party. The ride of Paul Revere.

I agree - to me, these things are what truly make America great. I believe the US Constitution is one of the most remarkable documents in the world - something every American can be truly proud of. :)

- Dien Rice