July 4th is perhaps one of my favorite of our nation's holidays. There is so much history, tradition and patriotism wrapped up in this one day celebrating our nation's independence and the idea that is America. As I was preparing for Independence Day this year, I was reflecting on the moving words to a Charlie Daniel's song, "Red Skeleton's Pledge of Allegiance." This powerful recitation of our national pledge perfectly captures who we are as a nation!
The following words were spoken by the late Red Skelton on his television program as he related the story of his teacher, Mr. Laswell, who felt his students had come to think of the Pledge of Allegiance as merely something to recite in class each day. Now, more than ever, listen to the meaning of these words. "I've been listening to you boys and girls recite the Pledge of Allegiance all semester, and it seems as though it has become monotonous to you. May I recite it and try to explain to you the meaning of each word: I -- Me; an individual; a committee of one. Pledge -- To dedicate all of my worldly good to give without self-pity. Allegiance -- My love and my devotion. To the Flag -- Our standard. Old Glory; a symbol of freedom. Wherever she waves, there is respect, because your loyalty has given her a dignity that shouts Freedom is everybody's job. United -- That means that we've all come together. States -- Individual communities that have united into 48 great states; 48 individual communities with pride and dignity and purpose; all divided with imaginary boundaries, yet united to a common purpose, and that's love for country. And to the Republic -- A state in which sovereign power is invested into the representatives chosen by the people to govern; government is the people; and it's from the people to the leaders, and not from the leaders to the people. For which it stands One Nation -- One Nation, Meaning "so blessed by God." Indivisible -- Incapable of being divided. With Liberty -- Which is freedom; the right of power for one to live his own life without threats, fear, some any sort of retaliation. And Justice -- The principle and quality of dealing fairly with others. For All -- For All. Which means, boys and girls, it's as much your country as it is mine. Since I was a small boy, two states have been added to our country, and two words have been added to the Pledge of Allegiance: Under God. Wouldn't it be a pity if someone said, "That is a prayer" -- and that be eliminated from our schools, too?" God Bless America
We as a nation certainly have our problems, issues and divisions. We have from time-to-time failed to live up to our ideals. But as you celebrate July 4th this year with parades, cookouts fireworks, remember this: we are blessed to live in a nation who's core values are freedom and liberty. We have a rich heritage of people who lived and died to secure our liberty and prosperity. And we have lot for which to be thankful.
Happy Independence Day!
God Bless America!
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