Fourth Of July--Independence Day

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY! As we enjoy our get-togethers with family and friends on this the 236th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, I want to wish everyone the fun and celebratory nature of the holiday. But each year I reflect on what it took to get there, best exemplified by Emerson's Concord Hymn, which I share with you below.

By the rude bridge that arched the flood,
Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled,
Here once the embattled farmers stood,
And fired the shot heard round the world.

The foe long since in silence slept;
Alike the conqueror silent sleeps;
And Time the ruined bridge has swept
Down the dark stream which seaward creeps.

On this green bank, by this soft stream,
We set to-day a votive stone;
That memory may their deed redeem,
When, like our sires, our sons are gone.

Spirit, that made those spirits dare,
To die, and leave their children free,
Bid Time and Nature gently spare
The shaft we raise to them and thee.

The hymn was written to celebrate the unveiling of the Concord Memorial, and as a reminder that the price of liberty is eternal vigilance.