In a few days we will celebrate the birth of our nation, Independence Day, with parades, picnics,  fireworks, and all the usual Fourth of July activities.  It is appropriate at this time to take a look at our founding documents.

When I went to school, back when we studied real educational subjects, such as history, we were obliged to memorize the Preamble to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. One phrase from the second paragraph in the Preamble comes easily to mind, “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

While the idea of a Creator has lost favor with quite a few Americans, many still cling to the idea that we are guaranteed EQUALITY and HAPPINESS by this document.

I think it is important to clarify: we are created equally worthy by God, but our government can only guarantee equality of opportunity under our laws. It is not possible to legislate equal circumstances or abilities. Pursuit of happiness is to remain unfettered, but the outcome cannot be guaranteed.

People are born with widely different physical and mental abilities in a multitude of circumstances. This is a fact which doesn’t come under the purview of government regulation. Politicians who attempt to create equality in these areas are doomed to failure and frustration.

Perhaps it is time for all citizens to accept the unchangeable facts of life, accept our innate differences, and take responsibility for our own pursuit of happiness, within the boundaries of our individual circumstances.

God gives us Life, the government promises Liberty, but the pursuit of Happiness is up to us.

Have a blessed Fourth!