Here we are in an age when freedom is appreciated, but not truly KNOWN--at least not it seems lately. The fundamental principles on which this great country is based are crumbling. The very definition of what freedom means is under attack via endless debate. One Side appears to believe that to be free means to be free of the responsibility of consequences; the Other Side believes freedom means to be able to take risks, be a hard worker or be lazy, but either way you will eventually pay a consequence. Luck may be involved in opportunity, but hard work opens the door to success.
There is so much that has been forgotten of the rich history of this country. Is it perfect? No, but the philosophies upon which we are based nearly are. This year, make a promise to yourself that you will learn more about the true history of this country: The Federalist papers; or maybe you would enjoy a foreigner's view of what this country means to independence (Democracy in America , Alexis de Tocqueville). If you feel that America is "broke" I would state that it's because we have gotten AWAY from our principles, not because OF them. Stay away from revisionist textbooks--they only muddy up the waters, and suck you under. Be sure to look as objectively as possible, and find texts that are original in context. Not someone's lame "interpretation."
I love this country; I love the roots on which it is based (although I am not happy over all the events that have taken place--slavery, for example-- in its history, I still think the foundation that was intended (a.k.a Bill of Rights) is great).
May you reflect with happiness those things which make America unique, and great. Some things do not need to be "changed" so much.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Independence Day
Here we are in an age when freedom is appreciated, but not truly KNOWN--at least not it seems lately. The fundamental principles on which this great country is based are crumbling. The very definition of what freedom means is under attack via endless debate. One Side appears to believe that to be free means to be free of the responsibility of consequences; the Other Side believes freedom means to be able to take risks, be a hard worker or be lazy, but either way you will eventually pay a consequence. Luck may be involved in opportunity, but hard work opens the door to success.
There is so much that has been forgotten of the rich history of this country. Is it perfect? No, but the philosophies upon which we are based nearly are. This year, make a promise to yourself that you will learn more about the true history of this country: The Federalist papers; or maybe you would enjoy a foreigner's view of what this country means to independence (Democracy in America , Alexis de Tocqueville). If you feel that America is "broke" I would state that it's because we have gotten AWAY from our principles, not because OF them. Stay away from revisionist textbooks--they only muddy up the waters, and suck you under. Be sure to look as objectively as possible, and find texts that are original in context. Not someone's lame "interpretation."
I love this country; I love the roots on which it is based (although I am not happy over all the events that have taken place--slavery, for example-- in its history, I still think the foundation that was intended (a.k.a Bill of Rights) is great).
May you reflect with happiness those things which make America unique, and great. Some things do not need to be "changed" so much.
There is so much that has been forgotten of the rich history of this country. Is it perfect? No, but the philosophies upon which we are based nearly are. This year, make a promise to yourself that you will learn more about the true history of this country: The Federalist papers; or maybe you would enjoy a foreigner's view of what this country means to independence (Democracy in America , Alexis de Tocqueville). If you feel that America is "broke" I would state that it's because we have gotten AWAY from our principles, not because OF them. Stay away from revisionist textbooks--they only muddy up the waters, and suck you under. Be sure to look as objectively as possible, and find texts that are original in context. Not someone's lame "interpretation."
I love this country; I love the roots on which it is based (although I am not happy over all the events that have taken place--slavery, for example-- in its history, I still think the foundation that was intended (a.k.a Bill of Rights) is great).
May you reflect with happiness those things which make America unique, and great. Some things do not need to be "changed" so much.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment