4th of July Tribute

As this 4th of July comes upon us, and we celebrate our nation’s Birthday, take a moment to reflect on what our founding fathers risked in order to provide us with the

“… life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” that we take for granted.

Their signatures on the Declaration of Independence was no small act of rebellion . . . it was treason. 

If the revolution had failed, some very brilliant men would have been hung, and we would still be part of the British Empire.  These men and their desire for independence did not represent everyone in the colonies; in fact only about one-third of the citizens favored independence, one-third thought we should remain part of England, and one-third didn’t much care one way or the other.

But because a small fraction of the citizenry believed so strongly in the need for independence, and were willing to risk everything for that freedom, we stand here today as free men and women.

We forget that Freedom isn’t free.  It was initially paid for by those brave colonists who stood their ground against the British and died.  Our freedom is purchased anew by every man and woman who puts on, (or has ever put on), the American uniform and willingly offered to sacrifice themselves to keep us free.

Unfortunately, we are both loved and hated for our freedom, and not just by foreign countries, but by our own citizens as well.  Some Americans have forgotten or don’t understand the price that has been paid for the freedoms we take for granted.  They blame America for world pollution, for global warming, and for terrorism because we help others fight for freedom.  They blame America for all that is bad in the world.

But were it not for America there would not be freedom in the world.  France is free because of America.  Italy is free because of America.  Germany is free because of America.  England is free because of America.  Egypt is free because of America.  Nation after nation is either free, or better off because of this great land of ours.

We are not a perfect nation, but we are a brilliant shining symbol of hope to many people throughout the world and we should be proud of that.  We are Americans.  With warts and wrinkles this is true; but also with honor, and pride, and hearts as big as the western sky.

So this 4th of July as you celebrate our nations birthday with fireworks and cookouts, take a moment in your heart to remember all the men and women who have risked everything to stand up to tyranny, oppression, and hate.  Do not ignore our shortcomings, but work to make them fewer; and at the same time salute our flag and be proud of America’s accomplishments in helping to keep the world free. 

Now if you have never heard this explanation of the Pledge of Allegiance by the late Red Skelton, do yourself a favor and give a listen.

That’s my 2 cents.