Strategic Leadership July 2014

Independence Day 2014

Americans celebrate the 4^th of July every year, which “is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain (now officially known as the United Kingdom).” Every year this is celebrated with fireworks, cookouts, pool parties, and lots of fun in the sun. July 4^th is a day when most Americans demonstrate their patriotic spirit of Independence Day and all that it means for America. But what does this day really mean?

The 4^th of July in the United States represents complete independence from England and the birth of a new nation. This liberty has come with a high price for many men and women who have served the United States Armed Forces, which are the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Liberty in the United States would not be possible if it were not for those who have served, and who are currently serving in this leadership. These men and women have put on the uniform of valor and have protected our rights and freedoms. Military leadership has been key for Americans to continue enjoying the freedoms of this country.

As Americans who live in a developed country, we enjoy of such privileges and freedoms, and can easily forget what our purpose in the world is today. America is called to be a change agent, a transformational leader to other nations, and a light for the rest of the world. Yet, at times we have fallen short of our calling. We should take the Apostle Peter’s advice to the Church: “Live like free people. But don’t use your freedom to cover up evil” (1 Peter 2:16, NIV). Therefore, we are called to freedom, to serve, and to bless others.

This is the main reason many, young and old, men and women, are wearing the uniforms of liberty today, so that we can enjoy our freedoms to prosper one another and contribute positively to our society. So, when you celebrate the 4^th of July this year with fireworks, and different activities with family and friends, do not forget that your freedom has been paid for by someone else who was selfless enough to answer the call. In short, we celebrate the 4^th of July (Independence Day) because we are proud to be Americans; a country where it is okay to express who you are and do it with respect and pride. Celebrate this 4^th of July as John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail in 1776:

“I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

References

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_(United_States)

Authors Peter & Ruby Rios

Peter and Ruby Rios are married and reside in Rochester, NY. Peter is a business consultant with RIOS, Robust Innovative Organizational Solutions, LLC, which he co founded with his wife Ruby. Together they are partners in many different endeavors. Ruby holds a PhD in Biochemistry and is presently conducting further research at the University of Rochester within the Pathology department. Her focus is on Leukemia. For consultancy email them at pr9130@gmail.com.