Freedom

Freedom! I was overwhelmed and awed by all the excitement surrounding America's 250th birthday! We stayed up Saturday night so we wouldn't miss anything.

In the different venues people would break out singing. During the rain/weather delay, people would spontaneously lead songs about freedom and God's blessings on our nation. It felt clean, and good, and happy!

The joy was not political so much as it was old fashioned patriotism. I've missed that! "The flag stands for freedom, and they can't take that away!" President Trump's 4th of July speech Saturday night was wrapped in the flag as it has evolved throughout the centuries.

He recounted many acts of patriotism that emphasized the importance of the flag, particularly in battles in America and those abroad. Special flags and mementos were presented to veterans and those who had done special service for the flag. Gold star families were honored for their unselfish sacrifices, and astronauts from the Artemis II mission were saluted for their valor more than 50 years after the last lunar mission.

Freedom means everything to those who are not free. The United States of America has been the envy of the world for most of her life. The love of freedom and nation has inspired thousands of citizens to improve living conditions for billions of people around the globe.

Freedom's call has been answered by thousands of patriots to aid other peoples and nations held captive by evil forces that hate peace. We are the only nation on earth who wants the whole world to enjoy the peace of freedom. When roaming reporters asked people what they liked most about the celebration, they'd often reply "freedom!" The millions of guests who have come to see their nations' teams compete in the World Cup have amazed Americans by their accolades for the USA!

They have sung our national anthem verbatim. They have praised our riches and our hospitality. But, they have almost always lauded our freedoms.

Why are we so different from other nations? Certainly, God's grace has shined on us. Our Founders listed God's inalienable gifts He has given us from the beginning: Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

Freedom is not free. We have many who have scorned freedom as something only the rich possess. And yet, Americans are the most charitable people on earth.

We work, we share with those in need, and we take advantage of opportunities that freedom provides. We build our means through our own blood, sweat, and tears. If we need more, we work more.

More than any other people, Americans are free to work and save and grow to attain our dreams and pass them on to our progeny. The biggest threat to freedom around the world is government. A government that frees its people to work and prosper will reap a loyal nation of patriots.

A government that controls production and heavily taxes those who prosper will drive prosperity from its borders. A government that divides its own people into the haves and have nots will instigate revolution. A nation divided cannot stand.

We are free to think and to choose, but we're not free to choose our consequences. Let's consider all the consequences before jumping like a frog. Remember wise words from a wellrespected high school English teacher.