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
On Thanksgiving attention turns to a band of persons who made the treacherous voyage westward across the Atlantic Ocean in 1620. The pilgrims were looking for religious freedom because they were scorned in Great Britain. Also, on the ship were merchants who wanted to start new enterprises for potential wealth in a fertile land. Britain decreased its prison population by sending prisoners to America to fare as best they could. The trip across the Atlantic bode a new start for many for numerous reasons. It was an opportunity for the immigrants and indigenous people to learn to live harmoniously.
The founding fathers were short-sighted in their understanding of the depths of the words they wrote, but the Declaration of Independence was a brilliant treatise for the freedom of all human beings (not just white men who owned property).
In 1776, 13 North American colonies declared their independence from the British Empire, because they were being taxed without representation in order that the empire could pay for its war with France and enrich England’s coffers. A people inspired by a vision of freedom won the Revolutionary War against Great Britain.
The War of 1812, a later conflict with Great Britain, attempted to restrict American trade by sea. This country took on the greatest naval power of the world at the time and won the war.
The people of the United States fought among themselves in the Civil War for the liberation of those in slavery and for state’s rights.
This nation has been in world and reginal wars throughout the globe and survived the direct attacks of Pearl Harbor and 911. This country believes that all persons are created equal and born with rights given by the Creator that cannot be surrendered or forfeited.
…endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.
Reflection
When we gather for Thanksgiving, let us give thanks to God for the abundance of people in this nation who are as different as the colors in a kaleidoscope. Do we strive to resemble the very systems that we fought against at our birth, or will we strive continuously to enable all to pursue the fullness of life?
Our strength is in our unity.
Dorothy Watson Tatem, D.Min.,
Senior Associate
Next Step Associates
Cassandra W. Jones, Ed.D.
CEO & President
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