Thoughts on America’s 250th Celebration – 2026

  Jeane Kirkpatrick, American ambassador to the UN during Reagan’s administration, once said, “Americans need to face the truth about themselves, no matter how pleasant it is.” 

     Most of us love the song “God Bless the USA” written and sung by Lee Greenwood.  The tune and lyrics are unashamedly patriotic and memorable.  One stanza, however, has always bothered me: “And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free / And I won’t forget the men who died who gave that right to me …”

     While Lee’s words – “the men who died”- may have meant our Founding Forefathers, I think many assume he meant our military men and women who died and “gave that right to me.”  The simple truth is that our rights were given to us by God – not men.  But throughout our history, our rights have been secured and protected by our military forces, who have put their lives on the line for us.

     Here are a few brief reasons why I believe America is so great and why we should celebrate its 250th:

1. Our God-given rights are protected by our written Declaration of Independence and Constitution. (For the text of the Declaration, click here: Declaration of Independence: A Transcription | National Archives) America is not perfect by any stretch, but we have a built-in expectation of improving (“perfecting”) what we have inherited, how we live, and the way we treat others, even though we are fallen and flawed creatures ourselves.
2. Liberty … the ability to do what we ought to do, not necessarily only what we want to do.
3. Freedom of speech (and conscience) … to stand and speak publicly in disagreement with others and against lies and forces opposing the truth.
4. Freedom of religion … much more than freedom to worship as we choose … the right to speak and to live out publicly what we believe in our hearts.
5. Right to bear arms … to protect ourselves, our family, and our community against those who would do us harm.
6. America is a meritocracy … If you are willing to work hard and apply your God-given talents, you can succeed, even beyond what you thought possible.
7. America is generous…America has done more good for the poor and downtrodden than any nation in history.

     Some may choose to focus on our flaws and failures.  I encourage all Americans to look at our potential and focus on recommitting to the great principles of our exceptional Republic.  As for me, I thank the Lord that I was born an American, have been blessed to raise my family as Americans, and that I am alive to participate in this 250^th celebration of our great Nation under God!