By: Steve Trubilla
Independence Day brings to mind all that have given so much to allow “We the People” to enjoy the freedoms we have. Many examples can be cited; however the pillar of the 1st Amendment ensures these freedoms endure. Politically we can differ, and often do, be-it sometimes in a heated manner that brings controversy. This is ok so long as we remember at the end of the day and in difficult times we are all first Americans. I know of no capture in history when during a fire fight, or when someone is charging into a burning building the question is asked what political party you belong to.
When sirens are heard for a terrible accident, no one asks if the person is Asian, Hispanic, white, black, gay, Christian, Jew, or Muslim, etc. Fear runs wild and if only for that time it is set aside and the best of us comes out. It really is when America’s light shines on us all. The very fact that this is true tells me someday it is possible we will understand we all are not that different; we desire the same things.
Eggs are broken when an omelet is made. Making one is a bit messy but worth the effort to enjoy it. I am using this as a metaphor to our Democratic Republic. The best omelets contain all kinds of things; individually good, but not as good as all together. The more you work at making them the better they get.
The tapestry that is our nation is much like this. Look how far we have come. Women suffrage and the 13th Amendment are two of the greatest gifts we have given ourselves. While it is true we have much more to do, had not our forefather’s, and often not mentioned foremother’s not taken the first steps the journey may never have begun.
I maintain we are a nation of laws. Without the law the struggle for justice and equality ends. There is value in peaceful civil disobedience however you simply cannot pick and choose the laws you are going to obey. If you do not like the laws, then as those that have come before you have done, work to change them.
There is room for everyone in our Country. Those that do not think so, in this writer’s opinion, need to take stock of their own contributions. What would our Country and the world be like if it were not for people like Severo Ochoa, Patricia Bath, Estevanico the Moor, Sequoyah, Alan Turing, James Wong Howe, and so many others? If there is no room for the other person, someday it may be decided there is no room for you.
Happy 2013 Independence Day America!