HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA

2 PARAGRAPHS 4 LIBERTY: #322

This July 4 we celebrate the 245th birthday of the United States of America.  But for me the occasion is sobered by an interview two friends of mine and I conducted of a Dr. William B. Allen who, among other things, is the past chair of the US Commission on Civil Rights.  Why? Because when I asked Dr. Allen if he agreed with me that we are a better country now than ever before, and would be even better ten years from now, he responded that he was deeply regretful that I had asked him that question.  The basis for his concern was that the answer to that question will be up to our present younger generation, because it is being led astray: into socialism, victimization, equal outcomes for all instead of equal opportunity and other similar traps.  And I fear he has a point.

            Nevertheless, I quote John Adams who, on July 3, 1776, which was the day before the Declaration of Independence’s final text was adopted, responded when his wife Abigail asked him what his vision was of the new traditions that would be celebrated in the future of our country, wrote:  “With Pomp and Parade, with Shows, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”  But he also wrote about the work it would take to sustain our freedom: “I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States.  Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory.  I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means.”  So the responsibilities of outcomes are now up to us because it is our government, and if it is not working we have no one to blame but ourselves!  Thus, with that in mind, I wish us all Rays of ravishing Light and Glory on our country’s birthday. And, in addition to celebrating it with fireworks, lemonade and hot dogs, let’s each also hoist a glass in salute to our country, and vow to do our best to make John Adams proud of us.  Happy Birthday America!

Quote for the week:  “You have two hands: one to help yourself, and one to help others.”  Audrey Hepburn