"Freedom is not free"

Tomorrow is July 4, 2025.... It has been 249 years  since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, marking the American colonies' declaration of freedom from British rule. Signed July 4, 1776, the fourth of July will forever be the "birth" of the United States as an independent nation.

People all over the United States will be celebrating with fireworks, maybe a parade or two, family gatherings and more. But, will they remember? Will they remember why this date is significant?

Or, will they just look at it as a day when they don't have to work and they can party a little more hardy?

No one should ever forget the sacrifices which were made in order for this country to have its independence.  There was a very lengthy, hard fought war - the American Revolution. Blood was spilled. Some did not survive.

This date was not just a date of signing a paper - it was a date signifying the determination and bravery of a group of people to go up against a global superpower such as Britain, was not in vain. That the lives lost resulted in a better future for those left behind.

The parties, fireworks and celebrating is great - but the reason behind it should never be forgotten.

And, the struggle continues today.

Many wars have come and gone. There most likely will be more in our future.

Freedom is not free. Not even close. It has come with sacrifices from many men and women who stood up and said they would fight for that right for all.

I wish more people would remember why they have the freedoms they do. No one should ever take for granted why they are able to do and say what they do. They should use those rights with the utmost respect towards those who made it possible.

Whenever someone uses the "I can say or do what I want card" - I always have to wonder if they have ever lost someone who made it possible for them to say that.

Freedom of speech is a wonderful yet sometimes devastating right to have. Over the years, many have abused those rights. They have downright trampled on them.

Freedom does not mean you have carte blanche to vandalize, terrorize, steal, libel someone's reputation, etc. Freedom is a beautiful, sacred right that should be respected and utilized with care. It should be used with reverence and wisdom.

George Washington is said to have expressed his strong support for freedom of speech - viewing it as "essential for a healthy republic". And, it really should be.

Unfortunately, we have those who don't give a fig who fought for their right to say what they want. And because of that, they have tarnished those freedoms that so many have sacrificed so much for.

The biggest problem may be common sense. You would think it is common sense that freedom doesn't mean anyone has the right to commit whatever crimes, moral atrocities and more that they want.

It is my hope one day everyone will look at freedom of speech as a very special gift that is to be treasured. A gift that we all have the right to use, and that we all should be using without causing harm to another. I know - a pipe dream at best.

But, that is my right - my freedom. I can hope and can pray for better tomorrows. That everyone will one day wake up and have an epiphany - freedom what a gift. What a sacrifice. It's my right - and my responsibility.