Happy 4th of July

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On this day in 1826, the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, two of the founding fathers died within hours of each other.  These two men could not have been more different in their thinking and political views, they even refused to speak for years, but reconciled to correspond regularly later in life.  They took risks with their lives and fortunes, they were absent from their families for years at a time in the service of their country. 

We owe a great deal to John Adams and Thomas Jefferson and all the others of their time who sacrificed more than most of us can imagine doing today.  Our politicians could learn something from these gentlemen.  They were not history book perfect to be sure.  However, they were treading in unknown territory with no map to follow, with strong opposing views and with failure having dire consequences.  In the end they and their contemporaries compromised, crafted a government, its essential documents and our future way of life.   They did a good job; we have much to thank them for.

The Fourth of July is more than parades, fireworks and a barbecue in the back yard. Let’s try and remember that and instill the importance of our history in our children.