I’ve written many times before that I’m not the most patriotic person. I am happy to be American but attribute my nationality to a lucky birth. However, 3 things over the past 12 hours have evoked in me a great sense of affection, belonging, and even pride for my country.

For perhaps the first time, today I read the Declaration of Independence in its entirety. Reading those hallowed words gave me chills. The Founding Fathers committed treason, but they logically explained why the American people were moved to declare independence. They described the tyranny under which they suffered and sought to create a better life for the people. That drive for liberty has endured to this day.

Last night I watched the Disney+ streaming of Hamilton for the first time, and it set me on a path of reflective thought. The establishment of the United States of America set precedence for the formation of a new community on the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice. A group of brilliant, committed people came together at the right time for all this to happen. However imperfect, the patriots who carried out the American Revolution truly wanted their people to have life, liberty, and the ability to pursue happiness.

I also got out my President’s deck today, much to the chagrin of my family, to revisit United States history. Between the cards of the different administrations, one can discern a continuous story of our nation’s history and its trials and tribulations through multiple presidencies. America has a remarkable story. Its founding was extraordinary in every sense, and history unfolded in just the precise way for the country to stand where it does today.

Two hundred and forty four years ago, a group of men declared, “Enough.” Great progress was made on that day. However, as 2020 has shown, we still have a long way to go. In order to form a more perfect Union, let us balance our successes from the past with the problems of the present. We must learn from our mistakes and continue down the path of progress set by our founders. In order to form a more perfect Union, we must engage in civil discourse and consistently consider reform. In order to form a more perfect Union, we must uphold our primary ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. In order to form a more perfect Union, we must be patriots, swearing to uphold these values and ensure their manifestations are available to all citizens. Happy Independence Day.