Happy Birthday America

Today is July 4th, the official birthday of the United States. I thought I would reflect on that a bit. We live in a world that is basically separated be good and evil. Those who are in the "evil" camp believe they are the good guys because the believe in fighting for their causes. Those are in the "good" camp are willing to fight to defend their cause.

On June 7, 1776 Richard Henry Lee (1732-1794), VA, presented Congress a resolution urging Congress to declare independence. On June 11, 1776 Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), John Adams (1735-1826), Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), Roger Sherman (1721-1793), and Robert R. Livingston (1746-1813) were appointed to a committee to draft a declaration of independence. From June 12 through June 27th, Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence at the request of the committee. On June 28, 1776, the draft was read in Congress. Between July 1 and July 4th, this document was debated, revised and adopted by Congress. For more information, go to Declaration of Independence.

This one document set in motion the birth of this great nation. The freedom that is eloquently expressed in this document is equally to none other. It is for this freedom that Americans are willing to give their life. As you celebrate this 4th of July holiday, please take time to reflect on the significance of this day. For many it is just a day off. How sad.

Do you proudly fly the American Flag in front of your home? If not, you should. If you do, retire the old tattered flag and put up a new one today. Do you thank military people when you see them? If not you should, they are fighting for the freedom you enjoy.

So as you enjoy the day off spending time with family and friends, take a moment to say Happy Birthday, America. And most importantly, thank God for this country and the freedom it represents.