Independence Day 2008

The other day, a friend sent me and a few other friends an email about the 4th of July. Summarizing this email, it described the actions of a few men who organized to draft a resolution that would dissolve allegiance to the British Crown and declare the freedom and independence of the United Colonies. The declaration also went on to state the rights of individuals for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

This small crew of men, initially about five men, knew that their positions and actions were considered treasonous. The authorities at hand, were within their current legal rights to restrain, jail, and execute them.

While many colonists at the time felt the same way and were dissatisfied with the British Crown, it was Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Ben Franklin, and a few others that were risking their lives in organizing the push for American independence, and what would lead to the Declaration of Independence.

Today in America, there are many dissatisfied with American politics. Many feel that their tax dollars are being spent on causes that they do not support. They're being taxed and not represented. They're free to vote appropriately, yet voter turnout is low. Their choices are generally between two parties, Democrat or Republican. Yet many choose not to vote, or if they do vote, they vote against the other party.

Contrast this to the actions of Jefferson, Adams, Washington, the Founding Fathers, and ultimately to the men and women they led into the War of Independence. Actions for which they risked their lives for liberty. For modern Americans, we're free to vote, assemble, and organize to change government. Yet many don't vote, vote frivolously, or do not orchestrate desired change.

A fog of complacency and powerlessness has sunk across the land of America. We've let mainstream media dictate whom we feel are viable candidates and issues to address. We've let laws enacted that have restricted our liberty. We've left the keys of government and our finances largely in the hands of individuals whom we feel do not represent our interests. We As a result, we have widespread political malaise and have enabled the actions of a few to dictate the lives of us all.

This is Independence Day 2008 contrasted against Independence Day 1776.