The Declaration of Independence is a fascinating document and worth reading from time to time. I read it every July 4. Please do it now, especially toward the end. If not, read toward the bottom of this. Or get it off the meme I made in part. Still, though, the real question is raised at the end of what I’ve written here.
It speaks to our ideals and aspirations as a nation of united people. We’ve fallen short at times, but we always get back up. It’s an indictment against the British king, accompanied by an explanation of why we must be a free nation, and then further details why. And it acknowledges the shared sacrifice necessary to achieve independence.
The known sacrifice, a mutual pledge to be shared, is little known and buried toward the bottom, but so real, even today. See, most everyone is aware of specific phrases like, “When in the Course of human events…“ or “We hold these truths to be self-evident…”
But tucked away and seldom taught in schools are found the heart in these words-“And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.”
The founders pledged their lives and property(fortunes) to the principles contained in the Declaration of Independence. We have a continuing duty to do the same.
However, I now have a question, and the answer will depend on your political perspective. If the founders had the foresight to know where we would be now as we begin our 250th year, would they have pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor for it?