Opinion
www.GilbertSunNews.com
July 2015
47
American patriotism rooted in common values BY MARICOPA COUNTY SUPERVISOR DENNY BARNEY, DISTRICT 1
May, June and July form a staircase of patriotism and history. On Memorial Day, we pause to pay homage to all whom have lost DENNY BARNEY. Submitted photo their lives serving in the U.S. military. June 6 is D-Day, the Battle of Normandy, the turning point in World War II. June 14 is Flag Day, observing the adoption of the American Flag in 1777. The greatest of these, July 4, Independence Day, we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the birth of the nation. Consider the words of some great Americans, who remind us of our unique heritage. American patriotism The freedom and happiness of man... (are) the sole objects of all legitimate government.”—Thomas Jefferson. The experience of American patriotism is unique. American patriotism is rooted in common values. It is more than love of country; it is love of ideals. Jefferson’s idea that government serves the individual was beyond revolutionary—it was radical. It has defined and connected us as Americans ever since. Divine providence “The longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth—that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid?”— Benjamin Franklin America was founded upon the belief that each man was endowed with inalienable rights by the Creator. Each of us created equally, no one inherently elevated above another. This equality mirrors God’s love. All receive it regardless of circumstance, wealth or education. In tandem to equality is the freedom by which to act upon it. The United States’ concepts of liberty are reflective of one
of God’s greatest gifts to humanity— free will. Citizens are unencumbered to choose where to live, who to marry, or how to earn a living. This leaves more room for greater individual expression and creation which honors and glorifies the Divine. Service leadership “All see, and most admire, the glare which hovers round the external trappings of elevated office. To me there is nothing in it, beyond the lustre which may be reflected from its connection with a power of promoting human felicity.”—George Washington I had to read this quote several times before I caught its full impact. Our Founding Fathers believed elected office was an opportunity to express benevolence, stewardship and integrity toward our fellow man. There is perhaps no greater example of this than George Washington. He served two terms despite the urgings of his countrymen to serve a third. A deeply principled man, he exemplified the spirit of service leadership.
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Freedom isn’t free “What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives everything its value.”—Thomas Paine This might sound trite. Sacrifice is not always popular. But almost 1.5 million men and women have paid the ultimate sacrifice since 1776.
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We all have an obligation to our country, whether you’re a teacher, doctor or businessman. We are all entitled to the same liberties, accountable to the same justices—and responsible for the endurance of both. Happy Independence Day. For more information about Denny Barney, visit www.maricopa.gov/dist1/ biography.aspx.
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