As we gather with family and friends for this Independence Day celebration; as we still hold the memories of how government responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by dispatching liberty; we remind ourselves that freedom is a valuable and precious gift worth fighting for.
There are many current anxieties, frustrations and feelings of despondency as our July 4th, 2022, celebrations take place. However, we would be well served to remember that we alone control our responses to events around us.
We can choose to put aside all of the challenges and issues that seem beyond our control, and we can gather in joyful fellowship with our family and friends to celebrate the reason our forefather’s defeated tyranny.
We Americans come from solid stock.
We carry in our DNA a fortitude of individual identity that is not dependent on government for affirmation or permission. We are the beneficiaries of those who believed in stubborn independence. What takes place at your picnic, gathering or assembly of fellowship is your independent choice.
I am reminded of an article written more than two decades ago, that still rings true to this day.
I am an American. I was conceived at Plymouth, born in Lexington and Concord, and reached maturity at Philadelphia.
I went through the fires of Shiloh, Gualdacanal, the Chosin Resovoir, Khe Sanh and a thousand other battlefields, and emerged rededicated to the ideals on which America was founded.
I am an American. Ever ready to defend my liberty and independence, to make any sacrifice and bear any burden – still, I seek no quarrel.
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