On Monday, we will be celebrating our nations birth.

I usually write about what’s been happening at City Hall with my Mayor’s Message. However, this time I felt it was appropriate to send a different message.

First, I wish all of you a very happy and safe Fourth of July!

As I reflect on our nation’s history, I recall a speech that a friend of mine (Dave Lock) recently gave at an Eagle Scout Court of Honor. I have his permission to share some of that speech with you in hopes that you too will reflect on these words, their meaning, and all the freedoms we share in our country.

“As U.S. citizens we all have rights which are guaranteed by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. But, with these rights also come responsibilities.

The right of free speech and freedom of the press comes with the responsibility to be honest, to be trustworthy, to be courteous, and to tell the whole truth.

Religious freedom carries the responsibility to be faithful, to be reverent, and to respect the religion of all other faiths.

The right to assemble (and yes even to protest) carries with it the responsibility to do so peacefully, use compassion,  to have respect for the property of others and to respect  people of a different opinion.

Our rights and freedoms are here because we as Americans believe in these values and principles, and these rights are for all to enjoy.”

So, as you celebrate with your family and friends on Monday think about all the other freedoms we enjoy and reflect on what our responsibilities are, that go along with those freedoms.

Happy Independence Day!