Celebrating Freedom on the Fourth of July
What are we celebrating?
The Fourth of July will be here soon. My “to do” list includes – cleaning the grill, picking up hot dogs and hamburgers, and checking the news for when the local fireworks start. You may have a list like mine, or it may be wildly different. But we all plan to celebrate. What exactly are we celebrating?
In America, the Fourth of July, or Independence Day, is a celebration of freedom.
Freedom was Important to America’s Founders
Freedom was very important to the people who founded America. These early colonists turned nation-builders took their decision to pursue freedom seriously. In fact, Thomas Jefferson showed just how serious these early leaders were in the preamble to the Declaration of Independence.
Several lines down from the familiar words about all men being created equal and having the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, Jefferson writes:
“Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes…”
The founders of the United States of America understood just how important freedom was and what a large step they took when they declared their independence from Great Britain. They were attempting to form something entirely new. The “American Experiment,” a nation founded on the ideas of freedom, equality, and the right of the people to have a voice in their own government, was a dream for them. A dream they fought, sacrificed, and worked to establish and protect.
Freedom Takes Work
Their hard work and sacrifice, along with that of many others through the years, is what allows us to enjoy freedom today as Americans. It is why we can make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July in relative peace and comfort. However, the founders also understood that establishing freedom is not enough. There is a cost for maintaining freedom. Thomas Paine wrote in 1777 that, “Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must … undergo the fatigues of supporting it.”
Celebrating Freedom Today
This year, as we celebrate the Fourth of July, maybe you, like me, can take a few minutes to reflect on the enormous sacrifice and work it took to give us the freedom to enjoy our hot dogs and fireworks in peace. And maybe, we could also think about what we can do to make sure those who come after us can continue to celebrate the Fourth of July in freedom and peace.
Warm Wishes for a Happy Independence Day from Westlark Advisors!
Celebrating Freedom on the Fourth of July
By JD Buss
