As I reflect on the approaching July 4th holiday.  I can honestly say I feel most proud of the men who gave us a reason to celebrate.  Had it not been for men of such courage and wisdom, we would be no better off then the other third world British colonies.

When these men signed their names to the words, "we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor".  They did not make this pledge figuratively, this was all to real.  They knew after placing their names on this world changing document,  if caught they would be tried for treason against the crown.  Punishable by death!

These enlightened men, who had the autacity to believe that the individual held more natural rights then that of any governing body, or reigning monarchy.  They believed so strongly that each person should be left to the their own will.   They believed a man should be left to succeed or fail based on his own abilities.   They believed we had the right to decide what our own happiness is.  That we should be able to choose what our god should be or not be.  That each man could speak is own mind, and not be punished for his beliefs.  It mattered not if his beliefs were offensive to the general public.  They understood the intent behind the words, "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness".  They knew these were not collective ideals.  These are individual goals.   They knew this was not something any form of government could give you.  But, something each person must achieve for themselves.

 In the future, I hope my proud moment will be when the American people remember that this not about what your government can do for you, or even what you can do for your government, it is about what you can do for yourself.  When the individual will once again be honored for their courage, and be rewarded for taking the risks to move this country forward.   Then, I will be proud, proud that America has been restored to her original foundation.