Since I was a boy, I have spent part of the Fourth of July rereading the Declaration of Independence.  Earlier today, I observed my annual ritual.  As I read Thomas Jefferson’s stirring words, I smiled when I felt the familiar chills arising in me–sensations filled with awe, reverence, inspiration, and a sense of possibility for all of humanity.  The aspirations we have for life, liberty, happiness are as alive today as they were on July 4, 1776.

On this great day, I remember how blessed I am to live in the greatest, most prosperous, most free country ever known on earth.  This greatness, prosperity, and freedom are indeed blessings, gifts to us, and they are not to be hoarded and kept to ourselves.  We can benefit from these gifts fully only when we share them with others, with the rest of the world, so much of which still yearns desperately for freedom, happiness, and peace.  May our home, our land, the United States of America, serve as a light of inspiration and peace and freedom to all people everywhere.  May everyone be encouraged and assured by the possibility of happiness and the knowledge that the dream of liberty can truly be fulfilled.

Let freedom ring from sea to shining sea, and even unto the darkest corners of the universe.

Happy Independence Day.