It has been wisely stated, “The transformation of a whole nation ultimately depends on the initiative and change of character of the individuals who comprise it.”
In retrospect, what nation on earth harbors more racial, national, cultural and religious diversity than this comparatively new American nation–when compared with others hundreds (if not thousands) of years its superior in age.
In 1776 representatives of 13 British Colonies in North America adopted an eloquent statement of reasons for declaring their independence. The resolution was approved by Congress on July 2 with the final draft adopted on July 4.
This week once again all nationalities, races and religions joined in celebration of the birthday of this American nation’s Declaration of Independence from Great Britain with parades, fireworks, family outings and any number of other formal and informal gatherings.
I will ever associate it with the many years that Roanoke’s celebration was highlighted by the Family Shooters’ fireworks display provided by the family of Roanoke’s beloved Bill Craft (now deceased). Still associated near it, however is the Salem Fair that remains a major attraction!
“From its very inception the United States was unlike other nations,” states an article from a 1976 Baha’i publication on America’s Destiny.
“Professing Christianity, the new pilgrims nevertheless dispossessed and massacred the original inhabitants of the land which they themselves had come in quest of refuge. Vociferous champions of human dignity and freedom, they still imported hundreds of thousands of slaves whose toil helped clear the woods, drain the swamps and raise the crops. Fearful of a stern God and wishing to do His will, they nevertheless produced a government of laws and much lawlessness.
“Yet America’s pursuit of wealth and power has an odd quality about it. Below the surface of struggles, selfishness and greed still surfaces the conviction that the country has a historical task to perform–that of demonstrating to the world that the brotherhood of man is not an illusion and that justice for all is not an idle dream.
But no social body, whatever its form, has power to maintain essential human rights for persons who have repudiated their moral obligation and abandoned the divine endowment distinguishing man from beast.”
As mankind matures and the development of science and technology continues in quantum leaps, we see all about us proofs of the inadequacy of material things; how joy, peace, and pure love are not found in the transitory things of this world–and certainly not through war, and that the value of one’s life is not contingent upon national or other residency! Yet mankind remains submerged in the sea of materialism and occupied primarily with the affairs of this world and the passions of its fleeting existence.
“Among the greatest of all services that can possibly be rendered to Almighty God,” however, “is the education and training of children, and service to mankind!”– reinstated through the dynamic force of example!” When children are brought up in an atmosphere of mutual love and respect they are more likely to treat others the same. It is also a well-proven fact that people generally tend to live up (or down) to expectations.
The heaven of divine wisdom, however, is illumined with the two luminaries of consultation and compassion…True consultation is spiritual conference in the attitude and atmosphere of love.
Synonymous also with the 4th of July for me is the incomparable voice of Kate Smith belting out “God Bless America . . . my home, sweet home!”
May God hasten the day when we learn to deal with one another at home and abroad, whether individual family or world family of man, through consultation rather than confrontation that this unique American nation may rise to her high calling and fulfill her high destiny in the promulgation of World Peace!
