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Everything. In other words what does it not mean?
This country gave me my family, my wife, my education, my home, my hopes and my dreams. It allows me to practice my religion (Christianity) without persecution. It provides safety and freedom. The ability to be a "rugged indiviualist" and stive without the constaints of a class society that would otherwise hold everyone back. It provides freedom against tryranny and against slavery. I can vote for whomever I want and not be punished or have my vote changed for a pre-arranged candidate. I can speak out against my government if I want and meet with elected officials and tell them what my community needs. I became a surgeon and have had many educational opportunities to help me achieve. I am allowed to teach many residents, interns and medical and respiratory care students. My home is not being raided by police. I can seek out legal advice and am considered equal to all men under the law. I get up every morning and save lives in my hospital which was my ultimate dream. This is why I keep the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights and Constitution framed on my walls at work.
The cost is what? Pay some taxes. Gladly. But perhaps that is not enough. We all have the duty to stand up and help perserve this union. This is something I think escapes many Americans on this 4th of July, but they remain safe because of the deeds of other men and women that gave their lives to keep them safe. Those men and women are still fighting on foreign shores to protect all of us and our ability to vote.
So, at the age of 44 years, being a burn and trauma surgeon, concerned about the military personnel in harm's way, I raised my hand to take the oath, to help those young men and women fighting to protect our freedoms and way of life. I just took the oath last week to join the Arizona Air National Guard. I believe that every American should serve to honor their country and protect these shores. At least in some capacity even if in the Peace Corps. I am later than others and much older, but I believe in our country. I believe in our flag and what it stands for. I love to see the flag fly and waving in the breeze and will gladly defend these shores or go where ordered.
This is what the 4th of July means to me and what this country means as well.
Good Bless America, the President and the people of the United States of America and all of the men and women in uniform in all branches of the US Military on this day. God bless all of you for having served and continue to serve in the Armed Services.
Happy Fourth of July,
Dutch Matthews
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