Independence Day

On this Independence Day, we should remember, "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among them are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."

Both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1825, fifty years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Adams purportedly said on his deathbed, "The Union is safe; Jefferson lives." He had no way of knowing, in Massachusetts, that Jefferson had died a few hours before in faraway Virginia. James Monroe died the next year--on Independence Day.

Also, I'm wondering and have been for quite a while: Why aren't there many schools--none around here--named after Abraham Lincoln? In fact, in the Detroit Metro area, two high schools are named after Adlai Stevenson! Now, he may or may not merit having such honor, but doesn't Lincoln at least merit it as much? Of course, I'm being facetious. Is this yet another instance of our incredible ignorance of history?

Speaking of ignorant: A Detroit sports columnist wrote this about an NHLer who signed with the Red Wings for both less money and a shorter term--that he was "...shunning guaranteed financial security." Huh? The guy signed for $7.5 million!!!!! Maybe someone isn't thinking properly, if at all. How many of us have made $7.5 million, not in a year, but in our lifetimes? I'm not bemoaning this guy his money; I don't care what he makes. But, "shunning guaranteed financial security?" Maybe his contract says he must spend it all in one year, that he can't save or invest any of it? See why I rarely read the sports columns!?!?

I'm reading yet another book on Lincoln and continue to be amazed at the man, his words, his ideas, his actions. Why don't we study him and his types more and more? Why do we focus on, well, "A-Rod and Madonna?" I think I know why....

Happy Independence Day!