The Fourth of July
The celebration of the day
The founders set the course
Presents an opportunity,
For better or for worse,
To analyze the true degree
To which our freedoms ring.
In absence of the same for all
They just don't mean a thing.
We like to think we have the right
To worship as we choose,
As long as we don't deviate
From well-established views.
We're told we have the best of health,
Of care to keep us well.
They want to fill us full of drugs,
But only those they sell.
We're free to guzzle fossil fuel
Enroute to local mall.
Rapaciously consuming and
Denying global toll.
A lasting peace has always been
A noble goal pursued.
But when we act with fear and haste
A "war" always ensued.
As we defend our way of life
And force it on the planet,
We must confront a simple truth
And not misunderstand it;
A true and strong democracy
Asks something from the citizen
That's more than pyrotechnical
And rote allegiance given.
