As we get closer to celebrating our nation’s independence, I wonder exactly what people will be celebrating this year.
Independence Day is a nationally celebrated holiday to remember when 13 colonies became independent from a controlling monarch. We gained our financial and democratic freedom and joined together under a republic that celebrated the freedom of speech, religion, press and equality under the law.
These were all things denied by our British rulers.
And now, as we look at our nation, what do we see?
No longer a united front willing to fight for morality and freedom, we are divided, using any and all unrest to justify immorality. Attacks on everyone from the police to the storeowner, rebel groups have decided to cause chaos and fear in order to get their way.
The thing is, so many are voicing their opinions at the top of their lungs, they don’t care if they are right or wrong.
Unity. The state of being one, combining all parts into one, absence of diversity and the oneness of mind. Our forefathers, who were not fully and morally capable as I’m sure some of you will point out, saw a better way of life than being told what to do and how to do it. They wanted more for their families, more for their kinfolk than being dominated by a British Empire.
I’m certain they argued, fought, got mad at each other on occasion while trying their best to create a government for the people. But, they were united. They had the same goal.
Right now, I know that statement is false in today’s government, in today’s culture. It’s no longer what can we do to find common ground? It’s, what can I do for me?
This 4th of July, let’s take a page from history and attempt to find a consensus, find unity in our country once more. There will always be those behind the scenes or in front, doing their best to create chaos and confusion. The devil does a wonderful job of distracting and putting fears into anyone he can.
But let’s try, for a moment, to understand the seriousness of our nation’s distress. If we can’t find a way to become united under a democratic government, then we will divide and fall into a socialist party.
Honor the fallen, look to our past to save our future and understand that unity doesn’t mean compliance.
Wave your American flags, light your sparklers and fireworks, but remember why we are really celebrating.
Happy 4th of July America!
