Our Independence (From Let Freedom Ring USA By Colin Hanna)

Two hundred thirty-four years ago we began an experiment that would change the trajectory of human history beyond anyone's imagination at the time.

We hold these truths to be self-evident:
People stood up. They claimed for the first time that the rights despots and monarchs had been self-righteously dolling out for centuries were not theirs to give.

that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights:
They stood up and proclaimed that their rights we're bestowed onto them by God almighty and no one else.

that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness:

When their voices were ignored, they proclaimed louder. They protested. They rallied. They fought. They Won.

And in their victory they created a document, so brilliant and elegant, that it has led a fledgling nation to grow into a beacon of liberty, freedom and prosperity like nothing known before it.

Two hundred thirty-four years later we are still indebted to those brave souls.

We live in a place of unparalleled freedom. A country where an individual's opportunity is limited by nothing but their dreams and willingness to work toward them. We speak freely, we practice our faith as we see fit, we protect ourselves and our families all through the freedoms fought for over two centuries ago.

We are free because of their sacrifice. And just as importantly, we are free because of every single brave man and women who has served our nation since as a member of our armed forces. We can not--we must not--ever forget the incredible sacrifice made to preserve and protect this dream, this experiment, this promise that is America.

This independence day, I would ask that you consider a contribution--no matter how large or small--to one of many incredible organizations dedicated to improve the lives of our veterans and their loved ones.

All gave some, and some gave all.

*************************
Penny and Doug
cupenny@tds.net
Penny's Antiques & Wedgwood Pantry





Quote of the Day:
"[T]he hour is fast approaching, on which the Honor and Success of this army, and the safety of our bleeding Country depend. Remember officers and Soldiers, that you are Freemen, fighting for the blessings of Liberty -- that slavery will be your portion, and that of your posterity, if you do not acquit yourselves like men." --George Washington, General Orders, 1776