Happy Independence Day!

On this day, 248 years ago, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, and 56 men would later sign that incredible document. Among them were farmers, lawyers, merchants, ministers, a printer, and a musician. Their ages ranged from 26 to 70 years old, and they were either born in America or halfway across the world in Ireland, Scotland, or England. One thing they all had in common was courage.

They were courageous enough to sign on to a document that would surely mean death if they were captured by the Royal Army. They had the courage to stand up for what is right, and to fight for the freedom that we love today. Millions of Americans have enjoyed the greatest country in the world because of the courageous actions of so many great American heroes, that all began with these men.

It’s important to remember that as we reflect on this holiday and think about what Patriotism means to each of us. It’s not simply a love for one’s country, but the courage to stand up for what is right in the face of imminent danger. The courage that was shown by those 56 men, 248 years ago.

Happy Independence Day!