Independence Day

As we pause on this Independence Day to recollect the true price of our freedoms, may we remember that God has placed upon this great country the obligation of showing the rest of the world just what freedom is all about.

Our nation is not just rich in material things. All nations look to us because we can speak out, even in dissent; because we can worship, even in the most ungodly ways; and because we can use our freedoms in all sorts of ways, all the while dreaming of bigger and better things.

America has everything it needs to bring about these better things but they too have a price--if not to produce them, then to protect them.

So perhaps, after all is said and done, we come back to the American people, who are willing to share their blessings to feed the poor and hungry, to educate the ignorant and to send medicine to the sick.

But these are our freedoms, our choices, our way. Let no one be deceived into believing these are available for the asking. They often have to be fought for and always defended. The price is high but worth it.

May our nation continue to be great and beautiful and free. May we be willing to fight for it and share it with the rest of the world. There are so many who know fear and hate and even prisons. Let us be a society that prays and hopes for peace on earth and goodwill toward all men, women and nations.

MANUEL A. ENERIZ

Camarillo