As we celebrate the upcoming birth of our nation, let us take time out to remember what a great nation we live in. Our history is rich and diverse. Many great men and women have taken up arms to defend our shores and maintain our freedoms of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. 
Let us not take for granted that a great deal of work by many people gave us these inalienable rights, so we cannot sit by, aimlessly thinking that everything is alright and someone is taking care of our country.
Be involved in your community, know what is going on in politics. The only way to know what truly is going on is to be involved. This is your life, your town and your country. Do not sit idly by and think that someone else will do what you want or expect.
We are living in historical times. With the tumult of the European markets resulting from the exodus of Britain from the European Union, global change is here. Who will be next? What are the implications?
So, as we celebrate the birthday of the United States and enjoy a wonderful three-day weekend, be thankful for our forefathers. Consider playing an active role in your community to enable us to continue the quality of life we so richly enjoy on our shores. A freedom that draws so many from other countries to our home.
Happy Fourth and God bless America! —Elizabeth Johnson
