Remembering Independence Day

Fred's Gripes blog

BY FRED BEDELL

Wednesday, July 1, 2009 10:33 AM EDT

As we approach the 4th of July, also known to all Americans as Independenence Day, let us remember the meaning of this day. It is not a day of department stores sales, barbecues and fireworks displays. It is a time in our history for us to remember all those who gave their lives and fought for our freedom in the Revolutionary War. Let us remember all of our founding fathers who put their lives on the line so we could enjoy the freedoms we enjoy today. It is on Independence Day that what it means to be an American becomes clear. I am proud to be in a country that allows me the personal freedom to speak my mind and to disagree even if it is not popular. There are countries that don't alllow this. Look at what is going on in Iran, where dissenters are beaten down for disagreeing with the government . This freedom does not come without a price. It comes with great personal sacrifice and devotion to duty. Like former President John F. Kennedy said: "Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country."

We have a great opportunity here and that is volunteering our time to help others . So, let's stand up and be doers like our Founding Fathers were when they stood up and signed the Declaration of Independence. Also, hang out the flag of our nation on this day and salute all those who gave all they had so we could have all that we have here today.