Celebrate Freedom by Not Taking It for Granted

The 4th of July is a great time for America. We fire up the barbeque and relax with family and friends in a way that would not be possible without the freedoms afforded by fifty six brave men who adopted the Declaration of Independence, which stated that every person has the right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” as endowed by their creator. They believed that founding a nation based on freedom would result in greatness and, for over two centuries, America has served as a shining example for the world.

The Founding Fathers believed what they were doing would result in a prosperous nation but there was certainly no guarantee. They also knew that putting their name on the Declaration of Independence was a treasonous act that could cost their lives. But they so believed in their principles that they forged ahead, and their dream has been sustained by Americans dedicated to the ideal of democracy for almost 250 years.

Freedom is a word that’s used so often, we take its real value for granted.  But think about what your life would be like if we didn’t have what we have because of it. I know I’m thankful to live in a nation where any dream is possible with hard work and determination. Sure, some things might be easier if all your needs were taken care of by the government. But reliance on government is not what made America great, and it’s a dangerous path to follow.

It’s been said that the price of liberty is eternal vigilance. Indeed, America is unlikely to be undone in one fell swoop, but rather eroded, a piece at a time. As government gets bigger, individual liberty will get smaller. And as government does more and more for people, our sense of personal responsibility will diminish.  It’s easy to expand the size and scope of government, but extremely difficult to reduce it once it has already been done. I believe that by focusing on providing responsible government, we adhere to the ideals of the Founding Fathers.

In the time between America’s founding and today we’ve seen many once great nations crumble because of oppressive regimes, unsustainable entitlement systems, and power struggles from within. Other nations have undergone radical shifts that have resulted in a government that reflects the American ideal.  

At the same time there are people in our own nation who read the Declaration of Independence not as a liberating document, but a binding one, guaranteeing happiness and not merely promising the ability to pursue it. Government has grown exponentially over the last 50 years, with more agencies, laws and regulations. In Wisconsin we try to balance the needs of the people with their fundamental rights. Our last two budgets have gone a long way to bringing us back to a place where freedom and prosperity can thrive.

Freedom is a precious gift and I am proud to celebrate today with my fellow Americans. That freedom does not come without struggle. So while you enjoy the weather, a brat, and a cold drink with your family give pause to give thanks to those who have protected our liberties and independence. Many in the world are not so fortunate. But by continuing to serve as an example, the United States can inspire great change.