There's a big weekend ahead, and like you and your family, we have big plans to enjoy the holiday. We're planning on mountain trout fishing and some wilderness scouting for elk on horseback. I'm sure some elk steaks will hit the grill as well.
The holiday we're celebrating is definitely more than fireworks and hot dogs. It's the strength of America's foundation. A group of resilient pioneers finally said, "We've had enough!" and put it down on paper in one of the most straight-forward documents ever produced. Thomas Jefferson drafted much of the document, but for it to have authority the Continental Congress had to adopt it. They did, and America's reputation for standing up for its rights, and against oppression, spread across the globe.
In 1791, the Bill of Rights was ratified adding the first 10 amendments to the Constitution, including the right to bear arms. As you know, that right comes under fire daily in a society becoming more and more removed from rural values, along with a lack of taking on personal responsibilities.
As you sit back on Monday and watch fireworks explode overhead, think about what it means to be independent and free. If you haven't read the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution or the Bill of Rights lately, get a copy and read it (
www.usconstitution.net) ... I'm sure it will open your eyes and give you a greater appreciation for what the founding fathers went through to create such a great country. It might also give you some insight on how to approach the problems the nation currently faces.
Have a great Fourth of July!