What unites us as a Nation?
Dear Subscriber:
Independence Day is here and it comes at a time when it is especially pertinent to focus on what is great about America and Americans.
This year has been full of challenges and July 4th provides an opportunity to take a break, relax with friends and family, and most importantly, to celebrate the greatest country our world has ever known.
On July 4, 1986, a day after rededicating the Statue of Liberty on its centenary anniversary, President Ronald Reagan spoke to the nation from New York Harbor. President Reagan said:
“…the things that unite us -- America's past of which we're so proud, our hopes and aspirations for the future of the world and this much-loved country -- these things far outweigh what little divides us. And so tonight we reaffirm that Jew and gentile, we are one nation under God; that black and white, we are one nation indivisible; that Republican and Democrat, we are all Americans. Tonight, with heart and hand, through whatever trial and travail, we pledge ourselves to each other and to the cause of human freedom, the cause that has given light to this land and hope to the world.”
While celebrating our 244th birthday, I ask you to think about what unites us as Americans, and what makes our country so special. Think of the freedoms that have been provided for us, and especially about those who have protected those freedoms throughout our history, including those who stand guard today all over the world. Always remember that freedom is not free, and that so many Veterans paid a heavy price so that we may enjoy everything we have today.
Let us all celebrate what is great about our country, and there is plenty. Happy Independence Day!
Thank you,
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