Independence Day 2016
There’s probably a near endless list of things that give meaning to Independence Day in the United States. Flags fly and millions enjoy the national holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, by the Continental Congress declaring that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as a new nation, the United States of America, and no longer part of the British Empire.
No small feat and one worth remembering. Amidst the fireworks for sale and the frenzy of cookouts and family gatherings it’s hard to imagine the topic of the Continental Congress comes up much.
On my way to Saint’s Cafe this morning I wondered what it all meant.
Vespa and the United States Army
Don’t let the perspective in the photo fool you — that armored personnel carrier is bigger and tougher than the scooter. Speed may be the only advantage for the Vespa.
As the parade elements began to gather this morning I wasn’t sure if this vehicle was there for the parade or because of the parade. With anxiety and fear gripping segments of the country in regard to terror it’s hard to know what’s part of a new system of security. Or what it all has to do with the fourth of July.
Revolutionary War Veteran
The markings on the tombstone are unreadable now but a Revolutionary War Veteran lays at rest in the Boalsburg Cemetery. I like to think he had a clearer understanding of the meaning of July 4, 1776 and what freedom meant.
Are we celebrating a day or an idea?
Idle Time at Saint’s Cafe
It’s easy for me to think of freedom as being able to do what I want. Passing time doing nothing in a cafe. It’s a free country after all. A notion responsible for a wide range of selfish behavior. Or just a life led in seductive oblivion. A self-centered view of the world that American Revolutionary Thomas Paine suggested could be a problem:
Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it.
The fatigue of supporting it. I bet that means more than saying the pledge of allegiance or going to watch the fireworks. And it’s about more than fighting wars and battles. John Adams, the second President of the United States and a leader of the American Revolution hinted at a greater responsibility in preserving our liberty:
Liberty cannot be preserved without general knowledge among the people.
As I worked through the day I wondered about the charge for knowledge and how often it appears our elected and would be elected representatives operate knowing how little attention the electorate pays to the machinations of the system the provides our freedom.
Perhaps that’s what Abraham Lincoln, perhaps the best President to ever serve this country, thought about the dangers of the people not engaging the system we have:
America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.
In celebration of Independence Day, I’ve started to read about this country I love.
Charlie6 says
That quote from Lincoln is prophetic.
Steve Williams says
Let’s hope it doesn’t come true Dom…
Bryce Lee says
Canada and the United States are similar; we both started as colonies of the British Crown. The United States, always and I suspect still, rebellious became independent.
Canada still remains wedded albeit indirectly to the British Crown, which suits me just fine.
Yes I am a monarchist, United Empire Loyalist family from way back when;
perhaps that’s one reason I feel uncomfortable entering into or even flying over the United States. To me, and my family roots it is the enemy.
Not to be negative about your thoughts and commentary Steve. Enjoyed your reflective photography “in the round” of the mirror and the Revoluntionary war symbol in the local stone orchard.
The bagel and tea (I assume) at Saints Cafe allowed you to reflect on that what was, and still is.
Steve Williams says
I think we’ve made friends with Canada. You’re safe here now Time to let go of history. Besides, you’ve given us Justin Bieber. We owe you.
I learn a lot in that old stone orchard. At the very least it’s a quiet place to walk.
David Eakin says
Just saw this posting today by Mike Rowe (TV personality and strong advocate for the industrial arts) – fits in very well with your musings:
http://mikerowe.com/2016/07/otw-onepercenters/
Steve Williams says
Thanks David. Mike Rowe has good stuff.
Steel says
Well said Steve.
Steve Williams says
Thanks Steel. We’re living in a great place.