As 4 July approaches, it is hard to believe or rather, it is hard to keep in perspective, this “Grand Experiment” in self-government, the Republic that was founded to give each citizen a voice in how they would be governed. How much of the ‘legend’ of United States independence is real and how much is either exaggerated, romanticized, or outright fabricated?
There are enough well documented accounts of events surrounding the birth of our Nation to create an objective story-line, from the Declaration of Independence, through the Federalist Papers, personal correspondences of Jefferson, Madison, and other “founders,” as well as private letters from farmer/patriots, who left their farms to fight for independence. The product of their efforts, The Constitution of The United States, and the nation destined to operate under its’ law, is at times overwhelming, and it still stands - - the system of ‘checks and balances’ holds - - we survive, and our flag sill flies.
When I consider The United States in its’ infancy, the single most extraordinary fact of it is the dedication of the men who conceived a country of self-government. Not only were they outnumbered by their Loyalist neighbors, they were absolutely committed to their dream. When they left their farms to take up arms against the British, they left their wives and family with the full knowledge that many would never return. Why would anyone DO that?
The answer is as simple as the question - - For me. For all the future generations of US citizens, men of good will, who believed every human should be free to pursue his own happiness, free of constraints by any authority, other than that he and his fellow citizens endorsed. It also required a perspective that has gone ‘out of fashion’ to some degree: That as mortal men our lives are finite, but we can live on in the minds of future generations by our acts of generosity toward future generations.
So, when the MSM supports a Star Chamber cobbled-up to subvert the rule-of-law, or promote false propaganda narratives in despicable ‘lawfare’ against political opposition, I fall back to the basic story of our nation’s founding. I re-run “The Patriot” and Mel Gibson reminds me of a time long ago, and the price paid to launch the dream. I am humbled, and renew my dedication to carry that dedication to freedom through to my grandchildren with as little whining as possible.
I was also humbled to watch President Trump CELEBRATE his felony conviction at the hands of evil men. ‘Whatever it takes to get the word out,” along with a souvenir of one of the Nation’s darkest days for justice in the form of a black MAGA T-shirt, with the message “NEVER SURRENDER.” (Never Surrender, indeed!). I thought it needed a ‘touch’ to drive home the point - - another reminder of where I come from, the price of freedom, and what is required - - .
I have a patch being made for the short-sleeve of my black, MAGA, Never Surrender, T-shirt - - a short note from Thomas Jefferson, on a black sew-on patch, with white lettering - “Our Lives, Our Fortunes, Our Sacred Honor” - - Time to go “All In”.
I had a few made. If you would like one, tell me where to mail it. If you do not want to put your address in digital form, mail a shipping label to the address below (Elkhart, Tx), and I will use your label, and keep no record. Happy 4th of July
Semper Fi
Rick
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“ For all the future generations of US citizens, men of good will, who believed every human should be free to pursue his own happiness, free of constraints by any authority, other than that he and his fellow citizens endorsed.”
Amen, brother!
God Bless America and our Founding Fathers and all of those who fight to keep us free! Happy Independence Day.