“Thank you, America” – Michael Morse

by Michael Morse, contributing writer

I am free to do as I please, whenever I please, with whomever I please. The rules of a civilized society are written in law, which I would follow even if they were not; the people who choose to break them are the reason those laws exist.

I am free to eat whatever I want, not because I am a brilliant farmer or huntsman, rather because the society that flourishes because our founding fathers saw fit to risk their lives, fortune and sacred honor to establish a constitutional republic that made commerce safe and profitable. Without the rule of law based on our constitution we would live in fear of marauders who through greater force would simply take what we produced. Our markets thrive because most of the people they serve pay for the goods offered and are loyal customers of those who serve them well.

I am free to sleep without fear of missile strikes, armed militants or gangs of criminals invading my home, taking my possessions and harming my family. I do not have to fight for my safety, it is provided for me with minimal tax investment by volunteer soldiers, police, medics and firefighters.

I am free to start a family confident that those who depend on me will be afforded all the opportunity they choose to pursue. Educational opportunities are limitless, skilled trades are in demand, hard work and dedication will produce growth and the pursuit of happiness is not a fantasy, but a very real possibility.

I am free from worry about my health, nutritional food is in abundance, medication available over the counter to cure minor aches and ailments, and people who have pursued the aforementioned opportunity to learn how to treat and sometimes cure the dreadful diseases that plague us abound.

Because these freedoms were provided to me without cost or conditions it is the least I can do to show gratitude to those who made it all possible by living my life to the fullest, obeying the laws created by man for mankind, creating something of value during my time here and setting an example for the next generation of Americans.

Thank you, America, and Happy Independence Day.

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Michael Morse spent 23 years as a firefighter/EMT with the Providence Fire Department before retiring in 2013 as Captain, Rescue Co. 5. He is an author of several books, most offering fellow firefighter/EMTs and the general population alike a poignant glimpse into one person’s journey through life, work and hope for the future. He is a Warwick resident.

Photo: Visit Rhode Island