Happy 4th of July!

This is a day for picnics, parades, and gatherings of families and neighbors. It is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence from England in 1776. A declaration of independence, severing ties with the King of England. Later, the Revolutionary War made the intent a reality. It was done through blood sweat and tears, but the intent and will of the people was done.

The Declaration was an arduous task all of itself. The early patriots in the Second Continental Congress labored over the wording of the Declaration. Many drafts were written and discussed. Finally, on July 4, 1776 they agreed. The document we celebrate today is the same they approved then. They knew that war was a likely consequence. And they were correct.

Intent. Statement of intent. Consequences of living up to the intent. Resolve and follow through. Then and thereafter.

That is the nature of great and solemn intent. Carefully thought through. Refined and then a commitment asked and granted. The way forward was then made clear. And the young American nation stepped boldly into that future.

Things are not so clear today. We are in a muddle. Many thoughts and ideologies. A plethora of political stratagems. At least four political parties, probably more if you count all the struggling activist groups. Lots of public discussion and argument on many issues.

But one thing remains quite clear: America is a nation of people who believe in the principles of government being of the people, by the people and for the people.

Those terms include you and I and 320 million more citizens. We the people is a large family. Like most families, not all is agreed upon or agreeable. That’s where the work lies for us to do. That’s the of, by and for part.

So roll up your sleeves and get busy to do your part. The work begun in 1776 is not yet done. Likely it will never be done. And that is not a bad thing if it leads to involvement, knowledge and the exercise of wisdom.

Are we all in? Or are we letting others do this in our stead? If the latter, do you trust their doing your will?  Perhaps you should check on that.

Well, you can restart this process tomorrow. For now, celebrate the independence and hard fought freedoms we have today.

Happy 4^th!!

July 4, 2017