God Bless America
The Committee of Five prepared the Declaration of Independence.
From as early as I can remember, the month of July has had important significance in my life. It is a constant reminder that I am an American and have rights and liberties that I should never take for granted. I hope that all Americans feel the same.
It is also a time to remember that we have these rights and liberties because of the work of a few. A Declaration of Independence was prepared by a Committee of Five. Thomas Jefferson was its principal author. Congress debated and revised the wording of the Declaration, finally approving it on July 4, 1776. A day earlier, John Adams, one of the Committee of Five, had written to his wife Abigail expressing his excitement for what had been accomplished.
He said, “This will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.”
On July 4, 2017, we continue to honor those individuals who sacrificed so much for our independence. While we begin the month of July with celebrations, we are reminded that independence comes with responsibility and commitment. In order to maintain the freedoms we so genuinely enjoy as citizens of the United States, we may also be required to take on leadership roles. We must “walk the talk,” and remember that we are not acting on our own behalf, but for the good of all, because that’s what being an American means.
As you read through this issue of the Presidio Sentinel, I want to remind you that as Americans we have the privilege of writing and sharing our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, interests and values, including religion and politics. And whether we agree or disagree, we have that liberty, privilege and right to have a voice. That’s something I will never take for granted. As a publisher, I take that liberty very seriously.
And I am reminded that fellow Americans have made significant contributions and sacrifices, including their lives, so that we have these rights and liberties, and can continue to be called Americans and celebrate the 4th of July.
As someone recently shared with me, “America’s fighting men and women sacrifice much to ensure that our great nation stays free. We owe a debt of gratitude to the soldiers that have paid the ultimate price for this cause, as well as for those who are blessed enough to return from the battlefield unscathed.”
This statement represents a message of past battles and current battles that are being fought to protect our rights and liberties. We should always be grateful that we are Americans and can proudly express our love for our country and all the benefits and privileges we have because of the contributions of those who came before us.
We should also never forget the Committee of Five and their devotion to this cause. God Bless America! Happy 4th of July.
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