Independence Day: it means we must summon our courage
People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough
men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.
A
few brave, politically-involved men risked their lives and everything they
owned to earn freedom and independence for all of us.
A
few brave soldiers and cops – and involved citizens – still do. With freedom
comes responsibility, including the responsibility to defend the freedom and
independence won for us at such great cost, by so few.
The responsibility doesn't end with soldiers and cops; it obligates every citizen who enjoys the independence that we celebrate today. Even if we are afraid. Especially if we are afraid.
This is an internal debate, not something that comes from
outside. When we look for rejection and reasons to hold back, that’s exactly
what we will find. On the other hand, if we seek the opportunity to serve, we'll find it.
Everyone is, at some level, scared. Everyone has the instinct to hold back. Those who overcome it aren't born brave. They are people who, as John Wayne said, “saddle up and get on anyway.”
Everyone is, at some level, scared. Everyone has the instinct to hold back. Those who overcome it aren't born brave. They are people who, as John Wayne said, “saddle up and get on anyway.”
They confront their innate fear instead of hiding from it.
Happy Independence Day. It’s not about fireworks, parties, or long weekends. Maxine tells us:
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