Just around the corner marks the 250th Anniversary (Declaration of Independence) of our beloved America. We are a young nation compared to European nations such as the U.K., France, and Spain. However, the anniversary has surely come at a price. Since the American Revolution from 1775 to 1783, and the many wars we’ve been part of since, it amazes me that we are still standing. Are we stronger today than 250 years ago? You tell me?

I‘ll be honest, I am proud to be an American, born on this land’s soil. What does that make me? A patriot, a nationalist, an extremist, etc. All of the above? Whatever you think about me, it’s none of my business.

Back during the Declaration of Independence from Britain, some of the key lines in that declaration of 1776, that stand out to me:

We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness—-That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. …

First, all men are created by their Creator, God. Secondly, a government can only exist with their powers, by who? The consent of the governed – you and me.  I am truly grateful for those men, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston, who drafted this incredible declaration.

Of course, the most controversial document of them all is the Constitution of the United States, ratified in 1787. It has often been disputed, rejected, and looked to be amended as our nation has changed. Whether you believe in and accept this sacred document or not, it is not my concern. One thing that should remain is that this document sets the foundation of how a democratic republic government should be set up, while protecting the citizens of the country.

As I drive to different towns and streets, I notice the townhalls, villages, and squares, all displaying flags and signs commemorating the 250th birthday of the United States of America. It brings chills down my spine. My parents came to this country in the mid-1960s from Italy to America to have a better life. And by God’s wonderful grace, they and my two other sisters thrived. If it weren’t for them crossing the Atlantic Ocean to the States, I might not have been here to write this. Over five decades later, I’ve held onto my culture, my heritage and my Italian traditions, passing those learnings to my children. I’ve worked, contributed to society, engaged in community, been neighborly, and supported my husband in his career. I am grateful to this country for the opportunity it has given me and my family.

In all the years this country has been in existence, our government has been both democratic and republican. Has either political party always done well? No. No government is perfect, unfortunately. And frankly, we should want a government that protects the rights of its citizens, while making sure to check and balance itself. One thing I will always know is that “We the people” have a voice, and we should use it to defend our land and our people, by voting, getting involved in our communities, and in schools. So, on this 250th birthday anniversary, remember who you are. Remember who you stand for. And remember to stand for what is right!

Happy 250th Birthday, America! Cheers and to many more years!

 

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