On this Independence Day, I find myself filled with gratitude. Yes, our country faces challenges. Yes, we have work to do.

But today... I'm choosing to focus on the miracle that is America.
The fact that you and I can speak freely about the things that matter most.

The fact that we can question authority without fear.
The fact that we can gather with family and friends to celebrate our freedoms.

These aren't small things.
They're everything.
As you fire up the grill and watch the fireworks tonight...
Take a moment to appreciate what our founders fought for.
Take a moment to honor those who've preserved these freedoms.
And take a moment to remember that despite all our differences...

We're incredibly blessed to call this land home. Reply and let me know what you’re grateful for this independence day

Happy 4th of July!

PS - Freedom isn't free. And it's not automatic. It requires each generation to stand up and protect it. That's our job now.

Dear Friends,

Just after 5 a.m. on July 5th, our beloved friends Liz and Matthew Hammond were driving through Central Texas with their three children—Surya, Khalil, and Malaya. A torrential downpour made it impossible to see that a bridge had been washed out by floodwaters.

With no time to stop, their minivan plunged into a raging river. Their 17-year-old daughter, Malaya, heroically managed to open a door, allowing the entire family to escape.

In total darkness, they fought to stay above water—desperately searching for land. Amid the chaos, Malaya was swept away by the fierce current.

Since that moment, we’ve been searching day and night—by land, air, and water.

On the morning of July 7th, Malaya was found in her final resting place, sitting peacefully upright, beneath trees, and wrapped in nature.

As a testament to the Hammonds’ unshakable spirit, just hours after saying goodbye to their beloved daughter, the four of them stepped into the river—returning to the place of tragedy not with anger, but with reverence. They entered the water to make peace with it, and to bless Malaya’s ascending spirit.

The Hammonds are a family grounded in love, faith, and selfless service. That foundation is reflected in the lives of their three children—each one exceptionally kind, compassionate, and pure of heart.

As the eldest, Malaya set the standard. Ask anyone who knows her, and they’ll tell you: Malaya is one of the most gentle, compassionate young women they’ve ever met.

The family is going through the unthinkable right now—and they could really use the support of community.

I’ve offered to help raise funds to assist them in rebuilding their lives. They have to now take care of funeral arrangements, replace their car, many belongings that they lost in the flood, and we want to afford them the time they all need to heal and get back on their feet again.

Whatever you can afford—no matter how small—please consider making a donation. Every single penny goes directly to the Hammond family

Donate at https://www.givesendgo.com/Hammondfamily

They’ve never owned much, because they’ve never asked for much. Having each other has always been enough.

But today, they need our help.

If you’re not in a position to give financially, please lift them up in your prayers. They need all the strength, hope, and love we can offer.

In the name of love and life,
Mikki Willis
Father/Filmmaker

In the wake of these devastating floods, a remarkable story of bravery has emerged. One extraordinary individual, Coast Guard rescue swimmer Scott Ruskan, stands out for saving 165 lives.

This young man's heroism serves as a powerful reminder how courage can inspire those going through the darkest times.