And she doesn't look a day over 233...

Happy Independence Day!

First, the funny:



234 years ago today, the United States of America was born when a group of rebels declared independence from England.

The Simpsons are funny, and humor is part of everything I do, but today is a serious day, as well.

I'm a history geek, and colonial/revolutionary-era American history has always been a subject of fascination with me. Studying this part of the past has helped me have a greater understanding of what it is to be free today.

The people that lived on this continent hundreds of years ago were just like we are today. They lived, worked, dreamed, and died.

They didn't want to live, work, dream and die under the rule of an absent king, seated on another continent.

So they did something about it.

It's become almost cliche, but the truth is that freedom isn't free.

Our freedom was secured by men and women who were willing to put their lives on the line. Christi Corbett, in her post "56 Men", helps put a human perspective on those who were willing to pay any price to breathe free.

Maintaining that freedom has not been cheap. Millions of Americans, including my father, have fought to keep freedom alive. Though my father came home, many didn't.
Emily White has a post on her blog that helps remind us of the continuing cost of freedom.

Is America perfect?

No.

But we are free to be imperfect.

While you're enjoying the cookouts, family gatherings, and fireworks today, remember what it has taken for us to get here. We can't afford to take freedom for granted.

The men and women who have fought and died to purchase and maintain our freedom did so for a purpose.

What will you do with your freedom?
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Thanks for reading my ranting,

Brad