It’s hard to appreciate what you’ve always had, which is true for people like me. You don’t appreciate what you didn’t work to obtain, nor sacrifice for in some way. A major exception here is individuals who fought and paid a price through war. You can’t even say that you pay money for your freedoms, because taxes are paid in other countries too and many of these offer less freedom and opportunity. Money alone does not produce a land of opportunity.

So what makes America a land of opportunity. It goes back to the reason Europeans came here to settle in the 1600's. They sought political and religious freedom. After a Declaration of Independence in 1776, they fought a revolutionary war against England. Years later the U.S. Constitution was written and accepted by the people. It became the document that establish our federal government. Soon thereafter a Bill of Rights was adopted. It had ten rights and these are the first ten amendments to the Constitution. Later other amendments were added, including one to free the slaves and another to give women the right to vote. With a new land and the federal guarantee of personal freedom, America became a nation of opportunity. It is here that an individual could literally pursue his hopes and dreams. Immigrants have flocked here ever since to take advantage of the opportunities and good living conditions.

There are several reasons so much progress has occurred here. A unique government was established that became a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. More people from different countries came here and became part of the big social melting pot in America. They left their old country and became American citizens. People gradually moved from the east coast to the west coast in a beautiful land full of rich soil for farming and lots of natural resources for development. Individuals were allowed to pursue their goals and dreams. Private enterprise flourished. Incentive and creativity were rewarded. Education became available to more and more of the population. The standard of living increased for families. Ultimately America became a world power.

Today people still want to come to America. They seek more freedom, health care, higher education, and jobs that pay well. They want to improve their situation in life. These individuals are a witness that we are a unique country in so many ways. There are disagreements among American on many issues, but no one can say we are not a land of opportunity.

So what should each of us do with this free country and the blessings it gives us? Here are some suggestions.

• Civic Affairs - Register to vote and become an informed and consistent voter in every election. Be willing to work on a political campaign. Run for public office. Serve as a volunteer on public committees at the municipal, county, and state level. Accept appointments to committees and commissions. Accept jury duty.
• Public Feedback - Do not merely complain or criticize public officials or political parties. This creates negative attitudes about government in lots of people. Instead, offer your constructive feedback and recommendations for improvement.
• Laws and Taxes - Respect the laws and obey them. Cooperate with law enforcement personnel. Do not support or contribute to illegal immigration. Related to this, pay all your taxes in an open and honest manner.
• Public Assistance Programs - There are many types of public assistance programs that a citizen can utilize to receive benefits. Some people deserve this assistance and some don’t. Some individuals figure all the angles in their favor and abuse the system which others are paying for out of their taxes. This is not fair, nor good citizenship.
• Personal Example - Utilize the freedoms, privileges and opportunities to make something of yourself. Be an example to others in all the ways you can. Get married and be a good husband or wife. Have children and raise them properly. Obtain a good education and job training. Have a good credit rating. Be employed in a worthwhile job, or run a profitable business that offers products or services which are beneficial for the public.
• Volunteer - Serve as a volunteer locally through various groups, organizations, institutions, churches, libraries, or schools. Volunteer in natural disasters in your area or distant areas. There are so many ways to be of service to others. Freely giving your time, energy, and money to help others in some way is what really pulls people and a community together.
• Good Neighbor - Be a good neighbor. Know some people in your neighborhood. Accept some as acquaintances or friends. Help them and let them help you. Be part of a neighborhood organization. All these things help to provide a friendly, more cohesive, and ultimately a safer neighborhood.   

I love America. I am grateful for the freedoms and opportunities I have. This land has treated me well. I respect its people. I trust they will continue to support this country, its leaders, and uphold the U.S. Constitution.

This month we celebrate the Fourth of July as Independence Day. It is more than a holiday or a day to do the things we like. It is a time to take a few moments and reflect on the many things we get from our country and then ask what we give back in return. As President John Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” I challenge you to do this. Be the best citizen you can. You’ll feel better about yourself and your country.

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Copyright  2008     Leland Pulley