The Declaration of Independence, the bedrock of American democracy, is before me. I read it carefully and thoughtfully often and I recommend that every American citizen does likewise. After the parades have passed, the celebration has ended, and the hoopla is over, reading it would be an excellent way to observe Independence Day, one of the cherished holidays of our nation.

 After 241 years, this noble document, consisting of 1,364 words, remains the best known and the noblest of American State papers. Two exceedingly important affirmations give this noble document its amazing power. It affirms unequivocally that, one, all citizens “are created equal.”  Therefore there is no class structure in our beloved nation — all of us are American citizens of equal rank. Two, all citizens are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable — that which cannot be taken away or transferred — rights.” These unalienable rights are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The government does not grant them. They are given by God to every American citizen.

This noble document became the secure foundation of our beloved nation. Prepared and signed by 56 stalwart patriots who risked their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor, it was adopted by thirteen colonies and produced a new nation, under God. On this continent that became known as the land of the free and the home of the brave, it stood as a shining light among the nations of the world giving hope to millions who wanted to make it their home. So great is that desire that a major problem our beloved land faces at the moment is countless undocumented immigrants who, ignoring all risks, have come here illegally to make this great land their home.

Our beloved land has slipped from its firm foundation. A society of classes is generally recognized, God has been pushed aside and the government, replacing Him, guarantees entitlements or rights. 

It is time to remember a basic principle: a structure removed from a firm foundation eventually falls.