Preserving Democracy

On this Fourth of July let us rededicate ourselves to the proposition that the people can be trusted to govern themselves. Let us resolve anew that this hallowed concept, bathed in the blood of heroic men and washed in the tears of courageous women, shall not perish by fault or default.

For democracy’s success rests with the people: statehood on manhood, political self-government on personal self-government, national greatness on personal greatness, and liberty for all on restraint for each. Freedom’s preservation truly lies in its true purpose: not the freedom to do wrong which hurts others, but the freedom to do right which helps all.

Liberty exists in proportion to wholesome restraint. – Daniel Webster

“Righteousness exalts a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.” (Proverbs 14:34)

Today is Mine (1972)
Leroy Brownlow, ed.
July 4th