In a modern era of plasma screen televisions and wireless computing, a deeper reflection upon our nations' hard fought struggle for independence can be lost in a wake of fanfare, social obligations and the opportunity to enjoy a long overdue day of relaxation that inevitable alludes so many of us.

Personal freedom is without a doubt the defining characteristic of this great nation. Freedom of speech, freedom to bear arms, freedom to worship when and how we please. In an time when so many national and international issues appear on the surface to divide the people of this country, there is at the end of the day the realization that it is the strength of our foundation, built upon the freedom of the individual, that will forever unites us.

Two hundred and thirty one years ago, the founding fathers, sons and daughters of this nation adopted the Declaration of Independence, declaring sovereignty from Great Britain and set fourth a new model of liberty for the world to contemplate. Kindling the sparks of freedom, the men and women of this burgeoning democracy stoked the embers of independence into a roaring blaze, igniting the bonfire of revolution and securing our right to self-rule and self-determine for generations to come.

Two hundred and thirty one years later, men, women and children from across this planet are still fighting and dying in great numbers to rid themselves of oppression and forge a free nation of their own. A nation where they can raise their children in safety. A nation where they can vote on their leadership. A nation where the voice of the individual can be heard.

If you have freedom on this 4th of July, you must never forget what is required to maintain it or the sacrifices that were made by those who struggled before you to obtain it. And if you have not freedom, you must know what is required of you to gain it and that others before you have prevailed over insurmountable odds to achieve it.

On this 4th of July, between the fireworks and the frivolity, I hope you have a moment to reflect upon these, The Principles of Freedom.

Freedom requires nothing less than:

The COURAGE to confront fear, danger, intimidation and even death without hesitation. To discard the very notion of failure and draw upon every ounce of your strength to do what must be done. Courage separates the worthy from the unwilling. Without courage, freedom is but a dream.

The PASSION to pursue liberty from oppression, casting off the binding shackles of tyranny and branding upon your soul the insatiable desire live as free men and women. Without passion, freedom has not the wings to fly.

The LEADERSHIP to ignite the bonfires of revolution and prevail over the challenges ahead, inspiring heroism through action, strength through command and unity through vision. Competent leadership is a prerequisite for self-rule. For the ship with no captain, it matters not what direction the wind blows.

The DETERMINATION to keep charging forward despite setback, maintain order in the face of opposition, sustain enthusiasm when there is discouragement and to never surrender in defeat. The hero will prevail despite failure. The road to success was not paved by the weak.

A COMMITMENT of truth to your purpose, devotion to your cause, allegiance to your leadership and loyalty to your brethren. To pursue independence with uncompromising conviction and fervent resolve. Freedom's foundation is sacrifice. God will not have his work done by cowards.

The DISCIPLINE to stay true to the course, to hold firm on the line, retain rigor, rank and order and to prepare for victory! Discipline of the one is essential, that a greater purpose may be achieved by the many. You must know your position.

A sense of DUTY to your god, to your country and to your compatriots. Honor, fortitude, character and integrity, these are the hallmarks of free men and women and the standards of distinction. So take up your shield and return home with honors behind it, or upon it.

The FAITH to believe that you will finish what you have started, that your dreams are worth every ounce of your effort and that you will live free no matter what the cost. You must fight for the right of self-determination.

Freedom is never free.

The Principles of Freedom were reprinted with permission from The Corpus Illuminata. www.corpusilluminata.com