Published: July 02, 2009 04:32 pm      

America’s birthday

We all play a part in a strong democracy

Today the people of the United States of America are celebrating the birth of their nation and, whether they know it or not, a rare event in the annuals of human history — a revolution that actually succeeded when the war was over. The ideals of the founders actually became the basis of a free society.

Other revolutions have not been so successful. The French Revolution started out with the ideals of liberty and justice, only to degenerate into a military dictatorship headed by Napoleon, who led France into an ultimately disastrous series of wars. Then there was the Russian Revolution. Its organizers sought to overthrow the tyranny of the czars and create a free society, but it, too, strayed and became a dictatorship.

America’s revolution more than once came very close to crumbling. One time George Washington’s army was trapped on Manhattan Island, but a fortuitous fog allowed the army to evacuate before the British could act. The army and the revolution could have simply dissolved at Valley Forge for lack of food, shoes and other essential supplies. Time and again the revolution came close to defeat, only to see a decisive British victory slip away by a narrow margin.

Great sacrifices have been made to keep the United States of America on track. During the Great Depression, people labored to keep the economy for collapsing completely.

During wars in places ranging from Normandy, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan, Americans have stepped up to challenges and made the ultimate sacrifice.

What all of these Americans have in common is the fact that they participated in the nation’s government in one way or another. They volunteered for military service or faithfully responded when they were called up for the draft. They ran for office and worked hard to faithfully execute their duties. They went to the polls and voted. They never waited for somebody else to take action and make life better.

Today the nation is celebrating a democracy that allows the people to participate. Administrations, agencies and initiatives come and go, but the people ultimately decide the nation’s course. For too many countries across the world, this is an incredible concept. Many may not like the United States, but there are just as many who look to this nation and find inspiration in the fact that government by the people and for the people is possible.

It is up to every American to participate in this great endeavor called democracy and keep the dream alive.