A Bouncing Check

In July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed. It was based on the establishment of individual freedoms, and contained "the most potent and consequential words in American history" (Joseph Ellis).

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator (sic) with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. 

--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,

--That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

Too "Biblical" for me!

Nevertheless, some people are still regarded as more free and equal and independent than others in making decisions for others. Some have more rights than others. The check keeps bouncing, personal freedoms are being removed, while others are barely there -  the promissory note that MLK referred to with regard to citizens of color in his 1963 "I Have a Dream" speech has never been fully embraced by our nation.

What is it we are celebrating on July 4th? The Land of the FREE? Do we have something to celebrate this year?

We are not a work in progress; rather a work in regress.