Reflecting on the Importance of 1776

This past weekend, our nation marked its 240th birthday as we celebrated our independence. The 4th of July is significant not only in American history, but also in world history. On this day, we commemorate the Declaration of Independence, reflecting on our heritage as the first country to be founded on liberty and freedom, principles for which our Founding Fathers were willing to put everything on the line, pledging to each other their lives, fortunes and sacred honor. In a 1776 letter dated just days after the signing of the Declaration, Abigail Adams wrote to her husband (and future president) John Adams, about her hopes for our new nation: "May the foundation of our new constitution, be justice, Truth and Righteousness. Like the wise man’s house may it be founded upon those Rocks and then neither storms or tempests will overthrow it." Centuries later, Abigail’s words continue to clearly articulate the greater purpose of the colonists’ cause while speaking to the best aspirations we still hold for our country. Whether you watched a parade, enjoyed fireworks, or simply wore your patriotic gear on these days past, I encourage you to reflect on what made 1776 special and why it is so important that we remember the events of our Founding centuries later.