Published: July 03, 2008 09:03 pm         

Land of free

With the dawning of another Independence Day, our 232nd as a nation, try to remember to pause for a moment and reflect on the fact that Americans are a free people, a way of life that is often taken for granted.

We can speak our minds, worship in whatever church, temple or mosque we choose, or ridicule religion if we wish. We come and go as we please. Most of us eat well and live in comfort. We own nice clothes, homes, cars, four-wheelers and big-screen TVs. Most have enough food, clean water and access to health care. We have countless forms of recreation.

Though we may complain about the government, taxes, the high cost of gasoline and air a multitude of other gripes, we have it pretty good. Over the years, thousands of men and women have sacrificed their lives to keep Old Glory flying and the people of the United States safe and sound and those of other lands free from tyranny.

They are doing so right this minute, as we prepare for family picnics. They will still be at it as we grill our hamburgers and drink our beer. When the fireworks explode tonight in their colorful patterns they may be experiencing detonations of a far different nature.

Remember the brave group of patriots who risked their lives in supporting and approving the Declaration of Independence — thus stating that the 13 American colonies then at war with England were no longer a part of the British Empire.

Primarily penned by Thomas Jefferson, the famous document detailed why the Continental Congress voted on July 2 to permanently sever its ties with the oppressive motherland. The birthday of the United States is celebrated July 4, the day the wording officially was adopted.