July 4, 2010

Dear Friends,

More than two hundred years ago, an assembly of brave and determined Americans met to announce to the world the birth of a new nation – a nation born of ideals rather than of coercion, where the power to govern rested with the consent of the people.

Adams, Franklin, and Jefferson — starting with just a few words etched on simple parchment, these bold colonists set in motion a radical experiment in democracy and free enterprise. In time, that experiment would be known to people all over the world by many different names — the Land of the Free, the Home of the Brave, the Arsenal of Democracy, the Shining City on a Hill, and the World’s Last Best Hope.

As modern Americans, who have enjoyed these blessings for so long, it is easy for us to forget just how groundbreaking this experiment really was. Not surprising, the Declaration of Independence signed by those visionaries caused panic in the capitals of Europe. It struck fear in the courts of monarchs and despots, most of who believed that government and tyranny were one in the same.

But the Declaration of Independence also inspired enlightened men everywhere — statesmen, scientists, philosophers, and theologians — to abandon old ways of power and privilege and embrace new ideals of freedom and justice. Slowly, they began to remake the world on principles that the Founders believed were self-evident.

And the world has never been the same.

Today, amid the spectacular fireworks and quiet backyard barbecues, we reflect on the precious endowment given to our nation — and to our world — by the Founders. And we pause to remember the tremendous effort and sacrifice rendered by millions of Americans – including those who still fight for freedom in Afghanistan and Iraq — who have preserved that endowment for generations yet to come.

The volunteer spirit is alive and well, and I’m proud of the many brave Tennesseans, who, like their ancestors before them, loved their country enough to defend it. They, like their forbearers, are literally changing our world.  Our prayers continue to go out for their safe return.

May God protect and defend our troops. And, may God bless America.

Sincerely,

Doug Overbey
State Senator

This entry was posted on Friday, July 2nd, 2010 at 4:44 pm and is filed under Featured News, Press Releases.
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