Sounding Fourth

When I stand quietly and if I’m still

I hear freedom's volley at Bunker Hill.

A new nation rises with growing pains;

Loss of life traded for liberty’s gains.

Brave men unite to cast off tyranny.

Breaking chains so that they might become free.

Thirteen colonies put it to the test

Sharing ideals, choosing only the best.

A Declaration of Independence

Steps they took were radical and immense.

Their challenge to authority meant war.

They wondered if freedom might long endure.

Leaving behind businesses, homes, and farms

Brave patriots heeded the call to arms.

Risking all they had: wealth, health, and life

They joined the battle fray, hardship, and strife.

Fighting to establish each blood-stained right

God-given freedoms ordained to shine bright.

Today let us honor those who were slain

Without honor, how will freedom remain?