Celebrating Freedom on the Fourth

It’s that time of year to break out the fireworks, barbecue, and gather with friends, family, and even co-workers to celebrate the birth of the greatest nation on Earth – the United States of America.

During this time of year, I think about our forefathers and the military men and women who sacrificed all to ensure future generations of Americans have the freedoms and guaranteed rights that we are born with and enjoy. But as history shows, true freedom comes with a hefty price. That price is blood and sacrifice.

What we take for granted today is still being fought for in many countries with oppressive dictators or governments. America is always at the forefront of fighting for and protecting those rights, not only for ourselves but for others who cannot defend themselves or are too weak to stand up against tyranny. This is why our troops are all over the world, standing up against evil and sacrificing so much. Families of these soldiers make many seen and unseen sacrifices as well.

If history has taught us one thing, it’s that history repeats itself. We must always be vigilant and watchful, or evil will raise its hand and strike at the innocent and the weak while stealing our freedoms in the night like a thief.

For this reason, we must continue to sacrifice and clutch our Constitution tightly in our arms and protect it to the letter from those who would whittle away at it until the right to defend our freedoms is so obscure that the government will hold all the power. This is why we must do our duty and vote in every election. This is why the men and women of this nation must stand up and stand in the gap. This is why we need to remember our history, or we are doomed to repeat it. This is why we need to say the pledge and sing our anthem at school, sporting events, and government meetings. This is why we need God in our homes and schools.

Enjoy your barbecue, fireworks, and parades, but always remember to keep a watchful eye for those who seek to suppress our freedom, and remember all the ones who sacrificed all so we can enjoy our precious freedoms.

This is Will B., saying Happy Fourth of July and save me some brisket!