The Power of Independence

Seth Godin wrote a blog on independence today and for once I was not really inspired.  In fact I found it a bit dark.  So today I was prompted to write my own blog on the power of independence.

Some know Independence Day only as a movie title.  Others only know that it is the day that we have fireworks and listen to patriotic music.  Others live in places where they know no freedoms.   In the US, 241 years ago, the Declaration of Independence was adopted.  It marked true independence from the previous oppressors.  It changed things.  It created a new nation.  A free nation.

Yesterday I spent the day with my daughter, who attends university in Warsaw, Poland and just got home from her first year of studies this past Saturday.  We talked a lot about freedom and liberty.

This blog is not about politics, but it is about loving our country and appreciating the power of independence and freedom and the power of choice.

Fireworks are a reminder to us of the amazing power that we have been given.  They are majestic and awesome.

Independence is a gift.  Men fought hard for it and still do today.  Tonight as you watch these present day “bombs bursting in air”, be grateful for the gift.  Take stock in the freedoms that we enjoy.

Build a company. Make your vision a reality.  Take charge of your future.  Change your game.  Be grateful for freedom.  Love this land.  Defend her.

If tomorrow all the things were gone
I’d worked for all my life
And I had to start again
With just my children and my wife

I’d thank my lucky stars
To be living here today
Cause the flag still stands for freedom
And they can’t take that away

And I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me

And I gladly stand up
Next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA

From the lakes of Minnesota
To the hills of Tennessee
Across the plains of Texas
From sea to shining sea

From Detroit down to Houston,
And New York to L.A
Well there’s pride in every American heart
And its time we stand and say

That I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me

And I gladly stand up
Next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA

And I’m proud to be and American
Where at least I know I’m free.
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me

And I gladly stand up
Next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA

Written by Lee Greenwood • Copyright © Universal Music Publishing Group