. Appropriate and timely reminder.
A movie from a few years ago portrayed a fictional president of the United States. Near the end of the film, the actor portraying the president said these lines, "America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You've got to want it bad, because it's gonna put up a fight."
I've thought about those words over the years and find them to be particularly true for our nation today.
Being a citizen of The United States of America means that we -- "We, the People" -- govern ourselves. In this republic of ours, we are represented by leaders whom we elect. These elected officials are chosen to represent us -- our values, our ideals, our desires and political will -- in the body or office to which they are elected. They have not wrested power from us. They are not elected for life. When these elected representatives no longer represent us, it is our duty to elect new leaders to take their place.
Throughout our lives, this is our great and solemn responsibility as citizens of this nation. In order to fulfill this responsibility to the best of our ability, we must be willing to take action.
The signers of the Declaration of Independence took action at great personal risk, indicating, "we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor." These were no idle promises.
Their action branded them traitors to their native country of Great Britain. Had the American colonies not won the war, these men would very likely have been found guilty of treason and executed.
Every day, the men and women of the United States armed forces take action to protect us against enemies and aggressors the world over.
Many find their duty takes them into harm's way, yet they willing go forward with the certainty that their actions will preserve liberty for their families and loved ones.
The action we are called to take does not put us in harm's way or place our lives in jeopardy, but it is no less important. What must we do?
-
Read and understand the principles contained in the founding documents of our nation, including the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence
-
Understand the issues of the day and evaluate them according to the principles contained in our founding documents
-
Take the time to become familiar with political candidates and their platforms. Find out if they will represent you well in their elected office
-
Teach our children what it means to be a citizen of The United States of America
-
Show respect for our laws and work with elected officials to change laws which are contrary to our founding documents
And so the actor concludes his speech, "Now show me that, defend that, celebrate that... Then you can stand up and sing about the ‘land of the free'".
1 Comments:
"The American President" is one of my top 5 favorite movies. So great...
Post a Comment
<< Home