Independence Day

I woke up today, thinking about Independence and Patriotism. they are both  interesting words, meaning;

Independence-freedom from the control, influence, support and aid of others. 

Patriot-a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.

a person who regards himself or herself as a defender, especially of individual rights, against presumed interference by the federal government.

I was reflecting on how the United States wanted their independence from England- that  they wanted the  freedom to self govern. I was thinking about all the people who saw this country as a place where they could be free to think for themselves, to make money by creating their own business, to take care of their families, to believe what they wanted and to escape from persecution. 

Some of our inhabitants were not here willingly, but enslaved and eventually earned their freedom. I think about the Native peoples of this country, and every country- the First Peoples- our Native American brothers, who have had to relinquish their freedom in order for us to have ours; who still suffer today.

I thought about the courage and challenge and effort it took to be Self Governing, and to stand in that truth amidst the criticism of the naysayers, critics and large powers who sabotaged that  fight for Freedom at every turn.

I see the result of that Dream of our ancestors, and ask- would they be proud of what we've become?

I saw a commentary by Tony Blair on what makes America great- and I have to say that it inspired me as a Patriot. I don't always agree with  our politics, or  the decisions our government  makes- but I do believe that by having the Freedom to not agree; I am blessed to live in a place that allows me to do that. 

It is through the hard work- determination of  every immigrant that made this country what is is  and through the kindness and tolerance of our Native peoples, that I have these freedoms today.

I am inspired to  see tomorrow as my own Independence day- to be free from the tyranny of  the greatest enemy- myself and seek to  be self governing- disciplined and  raise my flag in truth, integrity and faith. 

I will strive to be courageous and blaze my own trail .

I will seek to be independent and pull my own load. 

I will not burden another with my lack of accountability.

I will defend that independence and be a beacon of it in  this world.

I will be an expression of my Faith.

I am proud to be an American and a Patriot- and Our United States,  like any family it has it's quirky bits- but we love each other and will do whatever it takes to defend it and  keep it together.

That is what makes us great. :)