Letter: Celebrate freedom Americans enjoy

From: State Rep. Ron Shimanski
Dist. 18A, (R-Silver Lake)
The Fourth of July is one day we unite to celebrate the freedom and liberty Americans enjoy on Independence Day and all 364 other days of the year.
There will be parades, picnics, concerts, fireworks, and reunions. Displays of America’s red, white and blue will fill the landscape as we honor our forefathers who put their lives and fortunes on the line to break free from tyranny. The courage it took for our forefathers to reject oppression – and then prove their resolve in the Revolutionary War – cannot be overstated.
Our American spirit has remained strong for more than 230 years, but here are a few ways we can stoke the patriotic flames:
• Write a letter to the troops currently serving our country or thank a veteran.
• Get involved with local civic activities.
• Display the flag.
• Become familiar with the issues facing our area and beyond.
• Make a point of knowing the people who represent you on various boards and government bodies.
• Write or e-mail elected officials to ask questions or offer your thoughts.
• And most of all, never forget the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence to give us our freedom.
Because of their courageousness and foresight, “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Let us be dedicated to keep those world-changing words of freedom and liberty alive and strong.