Although our Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4th, the first public reading did not take place until July 8 in Philadelphia Independence Square. Twice that day, the Declaration was read to cheering crowds and pealing church bells. I wonder what these words – We hold these truths to be self-evident – and those that followed meant to the colonists in 1776, as compared to those of us born in the 1920s, 30s, & 40s, as well as the 1970s, 80s, & 90s. I asked “Me, Myself, and I” what words come to mind? Here are a few for your consideration on our nation’s birthday -July 4th.
Democracy – the free and equal right of every person to participate in a system of government – a country with a government that has been elected freely and equally by all of its citizens -a system of government based upon the principle of majority decision-making.
Freedom – a state in which somebody is able to act and live as he or she chooses without being subject to any, or undue restraints or restrictions.
Independence – freedom from dependence on or control by another person, organization or state.
Laws – rules of conduct or procedures recognized by a community as binding or enforceable by authority.
Equal – having the same privileges, tights, status, and opportunities as others.
Citizenship – the duties and responsibilities that come with being a member of a community.
All this past week, my “blogosphere” mind has been bombarded with messages about today’s holiday from all media forms, and I am concerned where our democratic way of life is heading. Perhaps it is just a phase of civic discourse we pass through as we approach the election of a new president. The fact that we have so many “hats in the ring” at this stage of the campaign process with so many points of view being articulated, adds to my concern.
It will be over a year before we exercise our right and responsibility as citizens and vote for the candidate of out choice. I wonder what percentage of American citizens will fulfill that obligation and participate in our democratic process?
What words do you think of, and what do they mean to you?