It's the Independence Day Holiday weekend.  And that means, it is time to celebrate another birthday of the freest nation in the world.  It is a time spent with friends and family.  Barbequing, drinks, and fireworks will all be a part of the magnificent display seen nationwide.

But as the date gets nearer, it is important to remember the real reason we are celebrating.  From the first permanent settlement at Jamestown, to the Battles of Lexington and Concord, our ancestors all came here for one reason: Liberty. 

It is important to note that without this belief, we would not be here today.  So, isn't it strange that we are doing exactly the opposite of what made us great?  Our freedom has been compromised by legislation like Obamacare, and other big government initiatives.  We are now trillions of dollars in debt.

What happened to the ideas of self-reliance, individualism, and personal responsibility?  These are the ideas that shaped our country and turned us into the most prosperous nation in the world. 

Now, more people than ever rely on the government.  The same government that can't pass a budget to reduce federal spending.  The government that has now involved itself with private matters and economic industries, such as the automobile industry.  If this trend continues, we will no longer enjoy the prosperity that our ancestors had. 

So as you take a bite out of that hot dog this weekend, remember the real reason for the celebration.  Think about the idea that our ancestors fought for.  The belief in the American Dream; that if you have a mind to do something, then the opportunity is yours for the taking.  Let's celebrate something of substance this year.