HAPPY 4th of july

As we enjoy the July 4th holiday let us all take the time to remember that it is more than just the picnics and barbeques. 

We as a nation are celebrating the signing of The Declaration of Independence. The Declaration of Independence was a declaration to the British that the American colonies were to be independent of their rule. The Declaration of Independence was the catalyst for the changes in government and the establishment of the freedoms we have today. 

America was to become the envy of all other nations because of our mission for the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration of Independence was much more than an opportunity for rebellious and political men to make a statement or to boost their own egos. It was a document that carried with its severe consequences as well as priceless gifts for future generations. 

In signing their names to the Declaration of Independence, the signers were effectively signing away their protection and anonymity from British forces. John Hancock, president of the Continental Congress, probably had the most cause for fear as he was the leader of the revolution against the British. True, he was described as a flamboyant character who liked attention. But his large signature on the Declaration of Independence was not to boast his own ego. It was a powerful response to a decree that had been delivered from England in early 1776 offering a large reward for his capture and the capture of several leading figures. 

On signing the Declaration in his famously clear and obvious way he commented, “The British ministry can read that name without spectacles; let them double their reward.” In the time following the signing of the Declaration of Independence we see that the British threats were serious, as five signers were captured by the British as traitors and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned, losing all of their earthly possessions. Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army; another had two sons captured. Nine of the fifty-six fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War. 

Yet with all of the risks, these 56 men knew that in order to create the nation of freedom that they dreamed of, they would need to take a stand. These men were influential, wealthy, popular, educated, and talented. 

They represented leading authorities in many professions. These men had everything to lose and risked it all to declare that citizens of America would no longer be forced to be subject to the whims of unfair British rule. Because they did, we live in a nation with liberty and justice; a nation that is united and seeks to foster general welfare and justice for all of us who have the privilege of being Americans. 

Thanks to these 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence who pledged their life and liberties to this new country. 

They stood up for what was the right thing to do. Now these 246 years later, we need to hold our elected officials responsible and remind them they work for us. Are we? 

This September LIGRA will be holding our annual pollical screening, for the county offices. Please let us know if you have any issues or concerns that we need to bring up to these seeking offices. 

They stood up for what was the right thing to do. Now these 246 years later, we need to hold our elected officials responsible and remind them they work for us. 

Are we holding them accountable? 

A copy of The Declaration of Independence is posted on our LIGRA.com website