Today is July 4, 2023. The day the United States of America celebrates its freedom from British rule, and the founding of a new idea: that humans could chart their own paths, keep the fruits of their labor, worship God the way they choose, and not be subjects to kings.

Most people in this modern day, sadly, just celebrate a day off. Parades, backyard barbeques and fireworks are a standard staple for the day, but how many really stop and reflect on what was sacrificed for us to have this freedom?

The simple act of wanting to be free was considered treason in the eyes of Britain. Going against the King was punishable by death, and yet, courageous men (and women), literally put everything they had on the line to establish this country. If they went up against the King, and lost, we would be living very different lives now.

Many died for our freedom. Many pledged their fortunes and honor to give us freedom.
They risked everything for us.

Today’s modern society spends a considerable amount of time on social media, complaining about the United States of America, clueless to the fact that if the Founders had failed those hundreds of years ago, they would not have the freedom to openly criticize the government. In fact, many countries today, as I type this, would hunt down any dissenters and disappear them.

The United States of America is exceptional. This concept has been warped to mean that we exalt ourselves over others in the world. This is a false ideology.

The United States of America is exceptional because we are the literal exception to the way other countries are ruled.

We are unique in our governmental organization, the way the government operates and what they are allowed to do. Our Constitution, by the people and for the people, upholds the citizens’ rights, NOT the government’s rights. Our rights don’t come from the government. They are not granted by the government. Our Constitution maintains that we are born free as human beings, and our rights are established at birth. Our rights come from God, and not humans. Whether you believe in God, or not, our Constitution guarantees that a you are born free, and your rights do not get to be removed by tyrants.
It’s a pretty simple concept, and yet, many fail to grasp it. Tyrants HATE the Constitution, and spend most of their time trying to work around or dismantle it.

The Constitution puts the restrictions on the government, not the people.

So today, as you watch the parades, enjoy the day off, barbeque with family and friends, and watch the fireworks, take a moment to reflect on what was given for our freedom, for how unique this country really is, compared to every other country in the world.

Happy Independence Day!