I am glad to be British because

All the above, plus satisfaction with the NHS in my area. As for British or English, right now I'm glad I am half Welsh.

Yes. The gardens, the countryside, villages, farms, misty mornings. I take the NHS for granted like many others but I never criticize it.

I think of myself as English but I'm British.

Gardens - I love the gardens of Great Britain.

An American once asked me whether I regard myself as English or British. I said that I've never really given it much thought, but if I was pressed I'd say I was a Yorkshireman.

I've often reflected on what a benign part of the world we live in. No earthquakes, volcanos, hurricanes, tsunamis, extreme heat, extreme cold, famines, wars, dangerous wild animals, minimal flooding and droughts, and politically stable.

Re the NHS, they're good when it's going their way, but I'd never ever trust them again.

Up until 6 months ago I would have defended our NHS to the hilt. But now, through my own and my friends experiences I sadly can't say this.
For the past 4 months the only way you can get to see a Dr at our surgery on the day is to be outside the surgery at 7. 45 in the morning.
It was 8 o/clock but people have learnt this is the only way and the queue is getting longer.

I don't think there's too much wrong with Britain

Beautiful countryside
Plentiful food
NHS for all

Have you ever lived in Germany, grannyknot?

True, but I dont think that Britain has it too far wrong.

I like its relative friendliness
I like its relative cheerfulness.

A sense of freedom can be relative. For example, in a place where there are many rules and regulations, it is hard to feel truly free.

Never too hot or too cold.
Civilised queues.
Decent TV.

Freedom, peace and a bloody good health service which has saved at least 5 of DH's 9 lives.
Plus I am sure English would be a hard language to learn with all its illogicalities and turns of phrase, so better to be a native speaker.

Did I write the op wrong?
I agree that we have relative freedom, peace and health service.

I am not sure if you are agreeing or disagreeing with me?

Soontobe.
Relative freedom ? How much more do you want?
Relative peace? Do you not think we live in a peaceful country.
I'll give you the relative good health service.