Today as we mark our 233 years as a nation, we pause to celebrate and reflect on this great experiment called democracy. America, the result of our desire for freedom from tyranny, offers its citizens, more than other nation, the opportunity for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

But America’s independence has not been achieved without sacrifice and mistakes along the way.

Men and women, from before the Revolutionary War and even today, have died because they believe in what America stands for and what it represents.

Those who planted the seeds of liberty 233 years ago knew that what they were cultivating was something the world had never seen before.

And like any gardener, constant care is required if we are to continue to grow.

America and those personal freedoms we have come to enjoy have not always been easy; they continue to spark debate here and abroad.

Look at the Constitution, so carefully crafted, that the framers knew instinctively, these were more than words, these were the ideals of what we all strive for, a “more perfect union.”

The First Amendment is the best example of what often divides and unites us.

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

America allows an individual whose words may infuriate you as he stands publicly, and as the movie, “The American President” makes clear, “who’s standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours.”

We fight, we scream and we debate the issues. While we may disagree on the topic, as Americans we are united in our belief that every American is entitled to his or her opinion without fear or government reprisal.

So as you dip into some homemade ice cream or take in the community fireworks display, remember America’s independence has not been without sacrifice and our differences will often put us at odds with one another.

But make no mistake, America will always be the land of the free.

Not to remember that would be a disservice to those who have fought for and will continue to fight so valiantly for our country.

Happy Birthday America!