I thought long and hard about what to post for July 4th. I searched hard to find the words to express why I love this country and all that it stands for. As a country, we are not perfect, but I believe that as Americans, most of us work to make this country a better place.

I believe in the ideals of the Declaration of Independence: “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, –”

I believe that we have rights, but I also believe that, with those rights, we have a civic duty and responsibility to participate in this grand experiment we call democracy. There is more to citizenship than saying I am an American, or watching fireworks. Stand up and be counted when it is time to vote. Take time to become educated on what is happening at the local, state, and federal levels. Take the effort to ensure that your elected representatives know your position so that they might better represent you. Ensure that you hold those in power to be accountable for their actions. Be a participant in our government, not just a bystander.

As we go about celebrating with picnics and fireworks, take a moment to reflect on the greatness that is America. Take a moment to thanks those who have made it great. The farmers in the fields, the factory workers on the assembly line, the public safety individuals standing on the red and blue line. Thank the government workers who toil unseen in the running of government. Thank each other for the role that we share in America. Thank our veterans who have sacrificed to ensure that we continue to be independent.

In closing I love this country. I love it for all that it is and for what it is not. I do not remember when I first heard John Wayne’s voice reciting “America, Why I Love Her”. For me, it has become part of my celebration for the 4th of July. I hear it and it reminds me of the little things that make this country great. So here it is for your enjoyment. I hope that you find it as enjoyable as I do.

WD

http://youtu.be/AuteyiYN6js

Posted on July 4th, by David in Holidays.

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