“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” — Declaration of Independence.
This week marks a significant milestone for the United States of America — 250 years of independence and the adoption of the Declaration Of Independence.
What a ride it’s been.
Over the course of 250 years, the United States of America has experienced the highest of highs — such as groundbreaking scientific advancements and achievements, and steps forward in living out the line in the Declaration that all are created equal — and the lowest of lows — such as when our nation was attacked, faced tragedy or people failed to see others as fellow humans.
Our country is built on a lot of hope and many ideals, as well as mistakes, best guesses, lessons learned and lived experience. It continues to change and evolve. It continues to get things wrong, and it continues to get things right.
As George Washington said in 1790, “The establishment of our new Government seemed to be the last great experiment for promoting human happiness.”
The experiment is clearly continuing, and the United States has not reached its final form.
The highs and lows have made this, for some, a very complicated milestone, and one that is making many reflect on what our nation has been, what it is now and what we’d like it to be in the future.
The good news, and what is important is to remember, is that we are each part of this experiment. We each have the ability to make our country better through making our local communities better, voting, speaking out when we see an area we believe we can help inform and any number of other ways.
This is, after all, our country, and it is up to each of us to help our country reach the ideals our Founding Fathers set out before us.
It’s also up each of us to mark this anniversary in a responsible manner and with each other in mind.
Here are just a few simple reminders as we head into this busy time of celebration:
• Don’t drink and drive. We don’t want to mourn the loss of a family member, friend, community member or visitor to our community because you made an irresponsible decision.
• Fireworks are illegal. Even when Colorado isn’t in fire restrictions and droughts with fires burning uncontrolled around the state, personal fireworks are illegal in our beautiful state in order to protect what makes this place so special.
• Don’t park on private property without permission or block driveways. Keep in mind the fire danger and risks of things like driving or parking on dry vegetation.
• It bears repeating again: Don’t play with fire. Adhere to all fire restrictions.
• Stay hydrated. Bring more water with you than you think you’ll need, and be sure to take breaks to cool off when needed.
• Be polite. Pack your patient pants and remember this is meant to be enjoyable as we commemorate some great achievements — America’s 250 and Colorado’s 150.
• Have fun.
Randi Pierce
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