In addition to the Labor Day Holiday 2018, September 3 is also the day in 1783 that the Treaty of Paris 1783 was signed, formally concluding the American Revolution and securing the independence of the United States from Great Britain.
A long struggle had finally given way to a victory for the United States.
Our freedom is truly a gift to celebrate and cherish, but it's not enough to have freedom in and of itself.
So many people have sacrificed greatly, even in giving of their lives, because they recognize freedom must be upheld and supported. We certainly owe much to the women and men who have worn the uniform to uphold what this country stands for, with John McCain as a great example fresh in our minds as he has been honored in many ways upon his passing from this life not that long ago.
But those of us who are civilians also have a role to play. We must embrace the responsibility that freedom gives us, working to advance our freedom and liberties so all people can live in them fully. Unlike many other nations, the United States was founded on a collection of ideas, which continue to drive our work as citizens. It can be difficult work, especially since our ideological differences have led to intensified polarization in recent years. But somehow, those values upon which we were founded continue to call to us and bring out our better selves when we stop to embrace and advance them.
And let us not forget all the progress that has been made so far, and the great wealth of opportunities that people have in this country, which continue to draw people from all over the world, who see something unique and noble about the United States.
Let us give thanks for the beauty of our values, our people, and even our land, which is full of varied richness.
Indeed, let us give thanks to God for our country. May God prosper our country as we continue upholding the values of liberty, inspired by the greatness to which we have already attained.
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