Wiston Papers

Celebrating America's Birthday

     

I love America.  Despite my occasional criticism of our political leaders, Democracy in the United States continues to work reasonably well.

Despite my irritation with the occasional misbehavior of celebrities, America enjoys a wonderful array of entertainment in venues across the land.

Despite my anger over the criminal deeds of some and the seemingly lack of justice in their cases, the vast majority of our citizens are law-abiding and respectful of the rule of law.

Despite my frustration over the inadequate funding for public education in some quarters and lack of needed counseling for young people in poor areas, our nation continues to graduate some of the brightest people in the world.

Today we celebrate our independence.  It’s a well-deserved occasion to remember how our forefathers and foremothers fought to establish this republic and build a nation that affords unlimited opportunities for persons who aspire.

The War of Independence was an act of revolution by a people who sought the freedom to chart a new course free from the binds that restricted full expression of religion, speech and political assembly.

For more than 200 years Americans have continued to follow that path.  It certainly hasn’t been an easy one.  And many of us have debated whether we have lost our way, abandoned our original ideas, squandered the legacy we inherited.

Yes, I am occasionally critical, irritated, angered and frustrated by what my fellow residents do or do not do.  Human beings have flaws and in a nation of more than 300 million inhabitants, those weaknesses will manifest themselves.

But America is a great nation with great people.  We are blessed to have a standard of living that remains the elusive goal of many around the world.  

We have a political system that affords open debate, grants freedom of religion, and protects the interests of divergent opinions.

We have a society that respects education, protects the legal rights of residents based on a presumed innocence, and promotes diversity.

We have an economic system that--when working properly--promises opportunities for employment, innovations, security and modest prosperity.

And we have men and women who continue to risk their lives and health by enlisting in our volunteer armed forces to protect America at home and abroad.  Men and women who eagerly serve as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps volunteers as well as a virtual army other residents engaged in a score of eleemosynary endeavors.

I love America.  She has her flaws, of course.  But let’s take a moment today to celebrate her greatness and pledge anew our commitment to the gift we all share as a result of those brave men and women who fought for our independence and freedom.

Steve Coon

July 04, 2012