July 4th is always a wonderful day to celebrate. This year, as we commemorate the 250th year of our Nation, it is even more so.
For two and a half centuries, Americans have worked to build upon this “Grand Experiment in Self Governance” and preserve the idea that a more perfect union and country can deliver upon the commitment that all men and women are created equal with unalienable rights from their Creator that invite Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness for all.
The Declaration of Independence was, and continues to be, such a profoundly important document because it introduced many of these ideas to the world in a coherent and credible way.
But the Declaration itself was only the beginning. When it was signed and proclaimed, the united colonies were already at war with Great Britain.
The work came after.
New York and Philadelphia were captured by British forces later that summer; New York was held by the enemy for seven years
George Washington had to build an Army facing formidable funding, training, and arms procurement challenges, including a brutal winter at Valley Forge in 1777
The Continental Congress struggled to raise funds for the war effort and took on enormous debt that persisted for years
The Treaty of Paris wasn’t completed until 1783, seven years after the Declaration and two years following the end of combat
The new nation struggled to govern itself for several years after the Revolution under the Articles of Confederation
The Constitution was not written until 1787, more than a decade after the first July 4th
The American Founders took on an enormous task that seemed to get progressively more challenging. Success certainly was not a foregone conclusion. But they persevered because they knew the idea was worth the sacrifice, and the work. They were building something for future generations.
For the most important things, building never stops. Long after the American founding, many people continued to fight, to build, and to improve. We are still perfecting the Union to this day.
History has shown that setbacks will occur, especially when the stakes are high.
If you want to make a difference in your community, do something. Build. Start messy, but start.
What lies ahead of us all is more important than what lies behind us.
Like our Founders, we are engaged in historic and generational work, the fruits of which may not be realized for many, many years to come. As we fly our flag, gather for parades and barbecues, and enjoy much needed time away from our work, may we reflect on the immeasurable blessing of being an American and a member of Team Alpine.
God bless America. Always forward.