"It ought to be celebrated by pomp
and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations
from one end of this continent to the other..." ~John Adams
Nothing says summer like the fourth of
July, especially in New England, comprised of states that were there “at the
beginning” of the United States of America. I’m always amazed when I think
about my country’s origins. It was built by brave folks who, despite the odds,
fought for what they believed in.
I often wonder what George Washington, Benjamin
Franklin, John and Samuel Adams, and Thomas Jefferson would think of the nation
today. Would they be impressed by our progress? Would they approve of what we’ve
done with independence?
Would their hearts break over the
injustices that exist amidst the freedom they helped win for us?
I’d be willing to bet they’d give us a
thumbs up on some things and a thumbs down on others. What words of wisdom would
they share with us? What changes would they make? Would they be willing to
fight for the nation as it stands today?
Simply watching the news or surfing the
web reveals all of the problems the United States faces on a regular basis.
Financial woes. Environmental crises. Racism. Violence. Drugs. I have to
believe, however, that for every negative, something positive is also happening
in the country. Someone is working on solving problems. Someone is finding
solutions. Someone is keeping the fight going.
Because freedom is not automatic.
It needs continual defense. It needs
people who understand its value. It needs people willing to do whatever it
takes. It needs unity.
So today, don’t consider yourself Italian
or Irish or French or Portuguese or whatever your heritage involves.
Instead, be American.
Be American and remember the sacrifices
that have been made and will continue to be made in the name of liberty.
Toodles,
Chris
The Maple Leaf
Series, available now. Book One, More Than Pancakes, is always FREE in ebook.
.jpg)