“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” These well-known words open the second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence.   On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted this historic document, the Declaration of Independence.

John Adams predicted in a letter to his wife Abigail that Americans would celebrate their Independence Day on July 2. Off by just two days.  Interestingly, the pomp and circumstance that many Americans presume took place on July 4, 1776, actually occurred days to weeks afterwards.  Now, 246 years later, we continue to celebrate Independence Day with gratitude for our freedom.   Flags will be flown, fireworks displayed, and concerts of patriotic music will stir us. 

So let’s celebrate.   Our nation may be faced with struggles of hatred, discrimination, and war.  Yet, we are free.  We still hold that all men are created equal.   Yes, all men, not just those who look like us.   It’s our privilege to live in this country; it’s our responsibility to hold onto those truths expressed by our forefathers.   All men . . . created by our Creator . . . created equal. . . deserving of our Christian love, welcome and forgiveness. 

God forgive us.  God give us strength.  God bless America

Judy