Sixty years. Happy birthday.

You've come a long way in a short time. To me, not surprisingly. Your history is a long and storied one. From the killing fields of dynastic despots to the skyscrapers of the twenty-first century, your past has been fraught with trial, tribulation, peril and despair. You defied all - you survived. You survived.

Now, you as you embark upon a journey to become perhaps the most influential and powerful nation on earth; make your ancestors proud of your efforts - perform admirably; act wisely, with diligence and conviction, never forgetting that you owe your ascendancy to those who have sacrificed and forfeited life that you might excel.

Do not listen to those who decry your victories and make disparaging remarks concerning your achievements. The naysayers want to hold you down, keep you in your place, and deny you the glory that you have earned for your nation. Remember those who have sacrificed - those who have permitted and endured so much personal injury for your future, uncomplainingly - patiently, tolerantly. Bestow upon them the belated glory that they so richly deserve. Honor your forefathers.

The time is right - the time is now. Do not go silently into the night; but, pull aside this dark shroud and enter with a burst of incendiary brilliance, colorfully and magnificently, light the way for the world in a time of darkness.

May you lead for a thousand lifetimes.