It’s Independence Day.  When someone says, “Happy 4th of July”, please correct them.  Today, we celebrate a group of people who, in the face of great adversity and risking the wrath of a powerful country (England), decided that it was better to stand by your principles than to protect your fortune.  It’s hard to have a frame of reference now, but try to remember that back then, you could be killed and have your family ruined just for signing a piece of paper.  From those humble beginnings, long ago, we grew to become the greatest nation on earth.  Yesterday, we went to the Smithsonian and saw the Star Spangled Banner.  This is the 200th anniversary of the war of 1812.  I realize that it is just cloth, but to actually see the flag that inspired our National Anthem is a humbling experience.  Today, we’ll go sit on the Capitol steps and watch the fireworks.  We are very lucky to be Americans and to be this free.  Happy Independence Day.  As you enjoy today’s festivities, and barbecue, and fireworks… take every opportunity to remember and celebrate the courage and sacrifice of those who decided to be free 236 years ago when they said “we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.”