“I believe that every right implies a responsibility, every opportunity an obligation, every possession a duty.”- John D. Rockefeller

 The Declaration of Independence was a beginning. Our nation’s leaders declared on our behalf our intention to be our community and to do what it takes to determine our fate.

 In the years to follow, we waged war and suffered hardship to earn our independence. At times the goal of independence seemed doomed. But, brave ones persisted. Endured. Prevailed.

 We became a nation of rights, opportunities and possessions. Our freedom is like no other. The opportunity exists for any person to get an education. Earn a living. Live where they want. Worship how they will. Acquire what they can.

As Rockefeller said, there are two sides.

 We must remain responsible to the constructs which give us our rights.

 We are obliged to live as considerate and mindful neighbors.

 We have duties to protect and to provide for each other.

 The Fourth is about more than fireworks and hot dogs.

 We live in the best place in the world. Stop and celebrate the intentional declaration our forefathers made tomorrow.