On this Independence Day we once again pause for a moment to think about the system of government that was bestowed on us by this country’s Founding Fathers 237 years ago; and the obligations and ongoing responsibilities we owe that system, its Founders, and each other.

In that vein, the following quotes seem particularly appropriate:

“Freedom makes a huge requirement of every human being.  With freedom comes responsibility.  For the person who is unwilling to grow up, the person who does not want to carry his own weight, this is a frightening prospect.”  Eleanor Roosevelt

“Most people do not really want freedom, because freedom involves responsibility, and most people are frightened of responsibility.”  Sigmund Freud

“The price of greatness is responsibility.”  Winston Churchill

“Criticism of government finds sanctuary in several portions of the 1st Amendment.  It is part of the right of free speech.  It embraces freedom of the press.”  Hugo Black

“You have citizens who don’t understand how government works and they’re kind of soured on it.  All they do is criticize.  They have no idea that they can make things happen.”  Sandra Day O’Connor

And last but not least, one that should especially resonate with those of us here in Illinois, notwithstanding a reservation or two about the motives of its speaker, who makes a living as an entertainer:

“Freedom isn’t free.  It shouldn’t be a bragging point that ‘Oh, I don’t get involved in politics,’ as if that makes someone cleaner.  No, that makes you derelict of duty in a republic.  Liars and panderers in government would have a much harder time of it if so many people didn’t insist on their right to remain ignorant and blindly agreeable.”  Bill Maher

Happy 4th… and carpe diem!

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