On the price of

freedom

Dear Reader,

If you could quantify it, what is your freedom worth?

How much are you willing to pay to be able to speak

your mind on issues without fear

of retribution, fines or going to

prison?

What are you willing to give in

order to be able to congregate, demonstrate,

or have the right to fight

for what you believe in?

Can you put a price on the freedom

to worship your God or no

God, or even something as simple as being able to wear

apparel with a message on it that others might not agree

with?

The United States was founded on the principles of

freedom from tyranny, religious persecution, and bullying.

Russia, run by a vicious dictator, has usurped the

rights of its people. China, ruled by a cunning tyrant,

spies on its 1.4 billion citizens and even profiles and

rates each one based on a government list of expected

behaviors. North Korea, controlled by a murderer, imprisons

and eliminates thousands of citizens every year.

America is different. We, the people, have the right to

vote for those who lead us. We have the right to think.

We have the right to act responsibly. We enjoy these

freedoms, and many more besides.

But freedom is not free. It was purchased with blood,

sweat, and tears. Many of our brothers and sisters

fought for, and died for our freedoms. We must remember

them and the ultimate sacrifice they made on our

behalf.

So this 4th of July, as you enjoy a family gathering in

your back yard or head out to a celebration, remember

those who paid the price. Decency demands no less.

Happy 4th.

Patrick Wood

Publisher