“May we think of freedom, not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right.”

- Peter Marshall

Never have these words been more true! This 4th of July finds our country in the midst a global epidemic, social unrest, a heightened fight for equality and a continuous political divide that threatens to splinter our great democracy. 

As we gather to celebrate the 244th birthday of the United States, let us not forget that freedom does not come easily. We have paid for it with each and every generation – making sacrifices now so the next generation may pursue their own version of the Great American Dream.  Examples can be seen all over our great nation as we witness the unselfish acts of our first responders and the doctors, nurses and scientists working around the clock to fight this terrible virus, as well as the multitude of peaceful demonstrators standing up for change.

Let these unprecedented times be a reminder, that we are we are not a Perfect Union but must strive to be so. That there are citizens among us that feel like the American Dream is just that – a dream – and beyond their reach. Unfortunately, there are still too many among us that do not believe all men are created equal that we were all endowed by the creator and that we all have unalienable rights, the greatest of which are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

More than at any point in American history, we are too eager to define one another by our political affiliations rather than one’s character, values, contributions, and good deeds. And as a nation, despite the blood and tears of so many, we are still too quick to judge one another by the color of our skin. Freedom comes with a great cost. We must all do our part to not only preserve it but to enhance the freedom and opportunities of others.

In addition to the above quote, Peter Marshall once said  “Give to us clear vision that we may know where to stand and what to stand for - because unless we stand for something, we shall fall for anything”.

This 4^th of July, may we all stand for Freedom: Freedom without prejudice; Liberty, Liberty without indifference and the pursuit of Happiness - for ALL!

“Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves”

- Abraham Lincoln

We salute the brave men and women that have given their all to keep our democracy safe and strong and for those of you that continue to engage in the process of perfecting our enduring Union!

Happy 244th Birthday!