It's All about Independence!
Today is Independence Day. The date may be July 4, but the holiday celebrates independence, and it’s better to be reminded. Have you read the Declaration of Independence recently? You should. Among other things, it will remind you that this nation was founded not only to win free of the tyranny of the British king but also to protect our “unalienable rights” of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” The balance of the document provides a list of grievances, which are a telling reminder of what they sought and, perhaps, what we may have lost or, at least, forgotten. How should we celebrate Independence Day? I have seen fireworks twice already. They reminded me of “the rockets red glare” from our national anthem, another good text to review from our second war with England (the War of 1812. Personally, I love the sights and sounds of fireworks, but they aren’t merely awesome for everyone. For those who have endured war or risked their lives to fight, they recall rea