4th of July–a point of honor

Not long after 56 men signed a document that would change the world, and put humanity on an upward trajectory toward freedom and prosperity, they selected a famous British General to lead the Continental Army.

The choice was critical since each man had pledged his life, his fortune and his sacred honor to the cause.   Each knew that if they failed, all would hang for treason.   Each knew also that there would be bounties placed on their lives, their wives’ lives, and their children while the coming war would be waged.

In fact, many of those men did lose their lives.   Many lost their fortunes.  Many lost their families. But, none lost their honor.   They stayed the course–no matter the price.   And we are richer for it today.

As I am packing my home to move out of state, I stood today at the wash stand that has come down to me through the centuries in our family.   In a small upstate village on the Vermont/New York border, Washington was recruiting to try to fill out his army.   Most of you may not know that the whole American Revolution was supported by a tiny percentage of the population.

Like any great recruiter, Washington painted the vision, but he also offered incentives for those who might enlist and fight.   John Adsit, my ancestor, was a poor man who dreamed of one day owning land.   George Washington signed a land grant to him that day, giving him and his heirs property.   He sat at the humble wash stand which was the only place available, and promised the land to our family–if they won.

John Adsit was not a young man, but he had a dream.   And he knew that a free society was necessary for him or his descendants to ever have anything.  So, he signed.  He went with Washington, leaving the family behind.  He stayed the course of the entire war, and he returned to work the land.

Why?  The promise of freedom and prosperity resonated with him I would guess.   And so he too pledged his life, his fortune (which was small), and his sacred honor to the cause.  Wealthy and poor alike believed in the dream and the rewards, and they fought and bled together to bring about opportunity for generations to come.

Today, as you eat your hot dogs, and bar-b-q, please reflect on the vision that precedes you, on the commitment that precedes you, which affords us a land where men and women are free to pursue their dreams.   We are not guaranteed the outcome of our efforts.   But we have been given the chance to expend our effort.

Ask yourself, what are you willing to pledge your life, your fortune, and your sacred honor to?  Hopefully you know.   But, if not, pray for the wisdom to identify something worth your life, worth your fortune, and which requires your honor.

Enjoy your day.   Enjoy your family and friends, and a delicious meal.  As for me, I look at that table, and salute a man who 8 generations ago, risked it all–for me.

Happy Birthday, America!

5 thoughts on “4th of July–a point of honor

  1. Tanii Carr

    Poignant, a lot to drink in and consider, really consider, and answer a tough question. Takes some confronting and courage. Tough to look at this evening, but vital to be reminded of what others have done so that I and we can enjoy this day.

    Thank you for reminding me. I hope others will consider your thoughts and take them to heart.

    Reply
    1. Lee Kessler Post author

      Tanii,
      Each of us is tested I think regarding our own honor. One of the things that I am most alarmed about in this country right now is the growing trend for some to be constantly degrading and critical of others’ character, when they themselves lack knowledge or honor. And it leaves them weak in character, by default. God help us all if any of these folks gain power.

      Reply
  2. Lupe

    What a great time to reflect on what was sacrificed before me. As a child of immigrant parents, I feel grateful for a country that had this vision, tenacity and courage to live freely. Because of these men who fought for theirs and their families freedom, my family and I have been given that same freedom. I’m left grateful because my life is much better had I grown up in a different country.

    Beautifully written! Thank you for centering our hearts back to how it all started and why.

    Reply
    1. Lee Kessler Post author

      Lupe, the Menchacas are a great addition to the American melting pot. As you grow, I appreciate that you value the heritage of this country. And now, you will make your contribution to the American story.

      Reply
  3. Beverly Hurst Shunta

    A challenging message. Many generations of men, and now women, have risked or given all for the future of others. We are blessed.

    Reply

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