Glorious Independence
Every year since 1776, Americans have gathered with friends, families, and neighbors to celebrate the birth of our national independence and to honor those who have sacrificed everything to ensure our freedom.
Despite the unique challenges each year brings, this timeless occasion unites Americans of all ages, political affiliations, and backgrounds. Independence Day, as Frederick Douglass described it in his July 4th, 1852 speech, "This, to you, is what the Passover was to the emancipated people of God."
Indeed, it is. Like any birthday, it is a time for reflection as we prepare to face the challenges of this pivotal election year.
At a time when the very principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence are under attack, it is crucial for us to reflect on our nation’s enduring character, forged over 248 years.
Our Constitutional Republic, like any individual, has a unique character shaped by our actions and experiences. It’s a tapestry woven from our physical surroundings, intellectual pursuits, and spiritual beliefs.
As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us remember the essence of the American character. Our survival and success in the days ahead depend on it.
America’s Enduring Character
The Role of Religion
First and foremost, the American character is deeply rooted in a profound religious sense. Our soul is deeply religious, a spirit that has consistently guided American thought and action. From the Declaration of Independence, which proclaimed that all men are endowed by their Creator with inalienable rights, to the First Amendment, safeguarding the free exercise of religion, our government has always honored the integrity of the individual.
This religious conviction inspired George Washington's belief in the indispensable support of religion and morality for political prosperity, and Abraham Lincoln's vision of a nation under God, dedicated to freedom and independence. Even in the darkest days of war, leaders like Franklin Roosevelt called upon this spirit, seeking not vengeance, but a Christ-like international order.
This profound religious sense has seen us through the abolition of slavery and the defeat of fascist racism. Today, it faces challenges from the rise of anti-Semitism, global communism, and tyranny which threaten us at home and abroad. Yet, our nation's devotion to the dignity of man and the growth of the human spirit has always triumphed over these philosophies of hate and coer. As de Tocqueville wisely noted, without respect for God, there can be little respect for man.
Idealism: A Foundational Belief
Our American idealism, born from the religious beliefs of our early settlers, has been a driving force throughout the life of our country. Despite economic interpretations of our past, the belief that we stood alongside divine principles has always motivated us.
From the Revolutionary cry of "No taxation without representation" to Washington's unwavering stance at the Constitutional Convention, our actions have been guided by principles of justice and governance. This idealism led to the Civil War, fought over the right of secession and the preservation of the Union, and continued through the world wars where we fought for democracy and peace.
Our idealism, however, has faced challenges. Post-World War I disillusionment led to isolationism, which we later paid for in World War II. Then, in the postwar era, our idealism was tested by old-world power politics and complacency by our leaders at home. Now, as we settle into a new phase of history, we see our idealism being tested again by the same forces of greed and oppression that our founders fought a revolution to leave behind.
But if we remain true to our American tradition, this idealism will continue to be a guiding light through the darkness of the stormy present.
Patriotism: Love of the Land
The third element of the American character is our deep-seated patriotism, rooted in a mystical love for our land. From our pioneer days, this connection to the land has been a core aspect of our national spirit.
This love of the land inspired our fight for independence and has been reflected in our highest moments of patriotism. From the Revolutionary War to the World Wars, Americans have always been ready to defend their native soil. This patriotism is captured in the words of Walt Whitman, celebrating the vastness and richness of our land.
Our history is filled with examples of American patriotism, from Bunker Hill to Bastogne, from Gettysburg to the beaches of Normandy and the deserts of the Middle East. Wherever freedom is threatened, generations of Americans have stood ready to fight for liberty and justice.
Individualism: The Right of the Individual
The American character is defined by a strong sense of individualism. The right of the individual against the State has been one of our most cherished political principles. Our Constitution enshrines this principle, ensuring that every person is free in thought, expression, and worship.
As Thomas Jefferson once said: "the God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time." While these rights are deeply embedded in our being, they are not universally recognized or exercised. They were hard-won and must be vigilantly protected. The struggle for these rights is never-ending, and eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.
The Road Ahead
In the final analysis, my fellow citizens, the American character is defined by a deep sense of religion, idealism, patriotism, and individualism. As we face the challenges ahead, may we uphold these qualities and ensure they prevail for future generations.
On this year’s Fourth of July, and all those to come, let us strive to be the torchbearers of these enduring principles, guiding our nation towards a future that is worthy of our unlimited potential.
Happy Independence Day.
The best is yet to come.