Freedom, Independence

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“Some say freedom is a gift placed in our hands by our forefathers.
Some say freedom is a human right that none should be denied.
Some say freedom is a privilege that can and will be seized if taken for granted.
Some say freedom is the key that opens doors otherwise meant to imprison.
Some say freedom is power to do, to be, to say, and to accomplish what the oppressed cannot.
Some say freedom is a responsibility—a weight to be carried and shared by those willing to protect it.Perhaps freedom is all these things.But in my eyes, I see freedom as a treasure. It is a gem so rare and precious the fiercest battles rage over it. The blood of thousands is spilled for it—past, present, and future. Where true and unblemished freedom exists, it shines with perfect clarity, drawing the greedy masses, both those who desire a portion of the spoils and those who would rob the possessor of the treasure, hoping to bury it away. Without freedom, I am a slave in shackles on a ship lost at sea.With freedom, I am a captain; I am a pirate; I am an admiral; I am a scout; I am the eagle souring overhead; I am the north star guiding a crew; I am the ship itself; I am whatever I choose to be.”

~ Richelle E. Goodrich~

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I agree with Richelle. I treasure the veil of freedom this country has been under since the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776. Perhaps not freedom and independence for all on that day, but it was a beginning. The United States of America, an infant in 1776, was a democracy that would grow and learn many lessons along the way. Lessons that we didn’t always retain. Lessons that would ride a roller coaster for 220 years. Lessons we have yet to own as a country and a melting pot of people.

Through it all, though, we’ve kept our independence and freedom. We’ve been a country of hope and salvation for many people. Our patriotism never seems to wane as our red, white and blue stars and stripes fly high. From those majestic purple mountains, to the snow on the mountain tops, to the fields of green and gold and amber, to the rivers, lakes and oceans that surround my “home,” I’m in love with this country. It is not perfect and probably will never be, but I love it just the same. The opportunity for a decent life is available in the U.S., as is the ability to enjoy the amenities of a modern nation. I am blessed beyond reproach to have had a good life in this country, to have a job, a car, a place to live and food in my mouth. I am blessed that I can vote for our leaders, even though the choices aren’t always the best. I am blessed that I don’t have to stand in line for food (not counting the grocery store) and can get on my bicycle and ride the trails whenever I please. I am blessed to be surrounded by family and friends who share the same freedoms and love of country.

So, on this Fourth of July, I wish Happy Independence to all of the U.S. bloggers out there, and happiness to those of you who live in a place that surrounds you with freedom, independence, and the blessings of a nation.