Independence Day

The 4th of July is fast approaching and this means parties, barbecues, and fireworks will be in full force very shortly. Almost every American looks forward to this day for it means time off from work along with some intense relaxation. But when people take part in these special festivities they often forget the true meaning of this holiday. All they care about is eating a lot and hanging out with friends, not that there is anything wrong with this, but be sure to remember what you're celebrating. It's almost too easy to forget that this is the day of our Independence from Britain.

On July 4, 1776, 233 years ago the Declaration of Independence was adopted. This completely severed the ties between the colonies and Britain causing the first true world war. For about 7 years after the signing there was intense fighting throughout our country, but afterwards our nation emereged victorious and able to say that we defeated the most powerful empire on the face of the earth... what a most remarkable feat! People often find other wars such as the Civil or World Wars to be much more interesting. But in my opinion I find the American Revolution to be the most fascinating; without this, the things we enjoy to do or study would be vastly different. What makes us distinct from the rest of the planet wouldn't exist. We would probably be singing "God Save the Queen" today if the Founding Fathers didn't take a stand. I would never want to sing that and I don't think many Americans would, but maybe that's just me...

Everyone should truly appreciate the sacrifices made by those brave men who stood up for what they believed in. They were on the precipitous brink of ruin, one wrong move would cost them everything. But nevertheless, they fought valiantly to secure what they most desired - Liberty, not only for themselves but for future generations of Americans as well. What they eventually created from the humble foundations of the colonies was an American Republic in which its citizens enjoy the most freedoms out of any country in the world past or present. This cannot be taken for granted at all, it's truly a miracle. If one looks at almost any industrialized country in Europe, even one such as France or Germany the rights granted to us by the Constitution such as free speech don't universally apply there. Liberty has a steep price, there's always someone trying to wrestle it away so they can instill tyranny. What makes us as Americans unique is that we don't put up with it, we'll fight to the last man if necessary to preserve our rights.

For over two centuries we have been doing this and look at what it has given us... the Strongest, Wealthiest, and Freest nation ever to exist. What more could you ask for? This is what happens when people are given the natural born rights that they're entitled to. Prosperity follows freedom... why do you think countries that have communism or fascism fall every day. There is total government within these, and that is why they falter. When rights are restricted or simply given away the nation crumbles under its own weight. Our own founders created this government one step away from anarchy. They wanted just enough government intervention to protect our liberties and that was all. Perhaps that's they path we should continue to follow, it has worked since 1776. Why change now? Recent history has shown that when government meddles with people's rights and restricts them, chaos ensues. Why do you think we're currently in an economic mess? It's because the government is getting too powerful; this nation is now beginning to crumble. It's time for people to wake up and remember the very basic principles that America was founded on. The more the government takes over, the more the country will fall apart... it's relatively simple. How have the majority of people in this country failed to recognize this? Our Republic, yes, our Republic not democracy, is heading down the path of ruin unless it's course is changed... the end of prosperity is near. I doubt that anyone wants this, so real change needs to take place.

Also, most of you reading this probably didn't know that America is not a democracy. In fact it's only a republic. Believe it or not democracy is actually a pretty bad form of government. Only during the 20th century did the term "American Democracy" emerge thanks in part to Woodrow Wilson. Here's some philosopher's take on democracy: in Plato's view "Democracy is a state in which the poor, gaining the upper hand, kill some and banish others, and then divide the offices among the remaining citizens equally." and the Roman Seneca said "Democracy is more cruel than wars or tyrants." While John Adams stated "Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts and murders itself." This may be surprising but in a democracy there's a virtual mob rule. In a vote for say, 51 out of 100, the majority could choose to basically do anything they want. As long as one side has more than 50% of the vote they could theoretically take away people's property or choose to kill someone for any reason. In a republic there is law, even if one side has more than 50% of the vote they are resticted in what they can do. For example, they couldn't arbitrarily take away someone's rights, they would be bound by law. In a republic you couldn't be banished simply because people don't like you; unless you break the law you're safe. But in a democracy anything flies. The founding fathers were very smart, they knew what a democracy would do so they stayed far away from it. Instead they created an American Republic. We need to stay true to this!

In conclusion, Independence Day is one of the most important American holidays, that is why it should be revered. We as citizens of the United States of America cannot forget under any circumstance how and why this country was forged from virtually nothing. Think about it, at its humble conception America was comprised of 13 separate states, but with hardwork and sacrifice it was destined to become an unbreakable union. And in this union liberty reigns supreme. So on the 4th while you're eating a hot dog or hamburger remember those who fought incredibly hard and gave up everything so you could be where you are today. Don't take it for granted, for it can disappear in an instant if no attention is paid.

"Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and success of Freedom." -JFK

"My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government." - Thomas Jefferson

"Live Free or Die"