Rep. Reschke’s Independence Day Message

By Oregon State Representative E. Werner Reschke,

249 years ago, the United States of America was born and the world has never been the same. Our Union began with 13 brave colonies coming together to refute the claim of England’s King George III to dominion over the new continent. The fundamental core of America is Freedom. Unfortunately, many people today do not understand this fundamental right, or they misuse it, which leads to chaos and angst seen in our politics and daily lives. So what is the real meaning of American freedom? What did the Founding Fathers intend when they used the term? What does it mean in today’s society?

American Flags

The Founder’s idea of Freedom can be thought of in two parts: Freedom From and Freedom To. “Freedom From” is the past history of our nation being subject to the domain and authority of the British Empire. However, that all changed on July 4, 1776, where 13 colonies declared independence. The simple fact is for the previous 100 years the colonies had been self-governing. King George III’s government was merely applying more rules and taxes without any representation of these colonies in his decisions. That type of rule is called tyranny. The colonies declared they wanted to be free from: tyrannical rule.

So after the revolution and freedom was achieved, then what? That is where the idea of “Freedom To” comes into play. There is a purpose for our freedom. However, that purpose is not to be misused to be free to do whatever we want without accountability. That type of freedom quickly leads a society into anarchy — tyrannical control over the weak. To prevent such devolution, the American idea of freedom is defined inside a moral framework. The Founders used the moral framework found in the Bible. This does not mean we are forced to worship a particular God or worship any at all. What it does mean is that our behavior needs to be restrained within certain moral principles. It is why theft and murder are not only morally wrong but also carry criminal penalties.

So while we have great latitude — far reaching privilege — to personally choose what career to pursue, who to marry, where to live, how to spend our money or when and where to travel, we are not permitted to pursue a freedom that harms ourselves, others or breaks down the moral fabric of our nation. In the Declaration of Independence, the Founders left us a big clue as to what they wanted us to use our freedom to pursue: the pursuit of happiness.

In 1776 happiness was not merely a feeling of momentary euphoria but rather the idea that we ought to pursue wise living. Therefore, we are free to pursue our talents, interests and passions within the moral framework. In essence we are free to pursue the good, the true and the beautiful. That is why we are free. That is why so many have stood firm and offered up their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor to keep the flame of freedom burning bright. Today, let’s celebrate our freedom with gratitude and recognition of the sacrifices made by others to grant this beautiful blessing called freedom.

Happy Independence Day everyone.
May God bless you, your family and the United States of America.