Gunshots or Fireworks?

Two hundred and thirty-nine years ago, our Founding Fathers signed a declaration of independence,  setting the stage for a revolutionary war, and the birth of a nation now known as The United States of America.  It was a bold move, the cause of much joy, struggle and pain, but based on the inalienable rights to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness", it stands as an ideal that is still worth striving toward, despite the on-going struggle to interpret exactly what that phrase entails.  For many years, this day has been marked by festive parades, music, family gatherings and fireworks, but in some neighborhoods, it's hard to distinguish between the fireworks and gunshots.  Today the nation is on high alert  for fear of rumored terrorist or "lone wolf" attacks on innocent people. We wonder what has happened to "the land of the free and the home of the brave."  For Americans, it is time for some deep soul-searching, not only for ourselves, but for the world, for we still represent an ideal that stems from the very soul of humanity.  For, indeed, we were created in God's image, given free-will to chose to exercise that freedom to become fully human, which in turn means to become as God-like as possible. If we lose our connection to God, the source of life and freedom, indeed the fireworks will be replaced with gunshots and no one will no the difference nor care.
For an uplift, go to You tube and listen to Kate Smith sing God Bless America and make it your prayer for today.
Bro. Rene