Freedom Is More Than The Fourth Of July
In our Fourth of July activities, let us not forget what we are celebrating and the sacrifices of those who gave all so we can enjoy freedom today.
By Colleen K Pulley
All across America people are thinking about the Fourth of July and activities associated with it. There are fireworks, parades, and family get-togethers. All these things are good, but they are merely reminders of something more important. What are the real reasons for the celebrations?
On July 4,1776 the Declaration of Independence was signed. Thirteen colonies here in America decided to take a stand against England. They wanted their freedom. This led to the Revolutionary war that lasted for six years until America won, and Britain surrendered.
Our forefathers took a stand. What does this mean for us today? Have you ever thought about the value of taking a stand? It is interesting that a person who takes a stand usually becomes a more confident individual. It seems when we put our standard in the ground, a transformation begins to happen within us. The act of taking a stand and declaring to all that “these are the things I stand by and believe in”, strengthens the individual and builds confidence.
When the standard that has been put in the ground helps others be better individuals, then the effect upon society is positive. The standard serves as a light to others. By rallying to the standard, the entire social structure is nurtured and becomes stronger. This is how we got a new and free country.
It is July and time to honor those valiant men and women who gathered around the standard of freedom in the past and do so today. We should make time to remember their sacrifice for the blessings we enjoy here in America.
Freedom is one of the most precious gifts a person can enjoy. It is one of the founding premises this nation is built upon. It is the beacon that draws countless millions to our land. These individuals are willing to put their lives on the line to try to come here. Why? They want to live where freedom resides. They want something better for themselves, and their families. They come here for the chance to give their children an education, and for the opportunity to have their hard work and incentives be rewarded economically and socially. As they live under Freedom’s standard, they become confident and strong, and they too become a part of the fabric of America.
To sustain individual and collective freedom there is much we can do. It begins by obeying the law and respecting the rights of others. It implies being informed and voting in our elections. It means we must pay taxes honestly for the services and benefits we want to receive. It means setting a good example for our young people. We must support basic institutions like the family. We can be volunteers in our community. The list can go on and on.
It is easy to take for granted all the freedoms we enjoy. The adage that we appreciate what we must work and fight for is true. In America today it is easy to forget the sacrifice that others gave for our freedoms. Unfortunately, there are those who go beyond forgetting to disruptive behavior, which has a negative impact on others and our country. Civil disobedience, demonstrations, flag burning, riots, and destruction of public property are symptoms of an ungrateful society. This behavior is often condoned by those who participate in it by reminding others that it is their right as a citizen to do these things. No, it is not!
No other country offers the degree of freedom that is given in the United States. So, if people wish to dissent, it is their right, but there is a difference between dissent and dissent that leads to violence and the destruction of property. We are all obligated to obey the laws of the land or pay for the consequences. In this sense if a person cannot abide the laws that govern, they have the right to leave.
We are a blessed nation, one where people come for freedom to become the best that they can be. When we are sitting along the parade route, and see the bands, and flags and watch the fireworks, let us not forget those men and women who gave their lives to establish this land of freedom. Let us not forget what we can do today. In this desire, may we all be united. Until later, Colleen
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