"Stand your ground! Don't fire unless fired upon! But, if they want to have a war, let it begin here." These words were spoken by Captain John Parker on April 19th, 1775. In Lexington, Massachusetts, where the first eight American patriots were killed after the Boston massacre, which took place five years prior. Parker was not only in battle with the "regulars" (British) on that monumental morning; he was also in battle with Tuberculosis, and unfortunately he passed away unable to take part in what his very words sparked the eternal flame of what we now know as the United States of America.
I am extremely grateful to be sitting on the coast of Maine while writing this to ensure that my message gets out to everyone on the day of our country’s independence. Before Maine, I had the opportunity to spend time in Lexington, Massachusetts, and during my time there, I made it a priority to learn the history of that American town. The information that I obtained is important, but the feeling I felt was something I cannot put into words. Too many people have given their lives and blood to not contemplate and have some kind of emotion during this time of the year, and I know that is not a bad thing. To take pride in where you are from. Though it is not a clean flag. To honor those who paid the ultimate price, to thank those who have fought and those who continue to do so. We have to remember that we are the land of the free because of the brave.
As I spend time traveling this country, I do not see the hate, the division, or the selfishness. I am not saying that it does not exist, because I know very well that it does, but remember, the propaganda machine is running at full throttle right now. Do not give in to it.
On this day, I encourage all of us Americans to take a moment to reflect on our lives, to look at this country from an outsider's perspective, and if you can, to take pride in the 246 year experiment that what we are extremely lucky to be a part of, although changes are needed, we can still find the good in uncertain times.
Happy 4th!
Peyton.
