We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. -Preamble to the Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776
These potent and consequential words remind us who and what we as a country are at our best. Our country’s Independence Day was cast as a federal holiday so that every American could celebrate our nation’s history and heritage. But more than that, our annual national holiday calls every US Citizen to reflect upon the moral standards upon which this country was founded and to which the United States should strive.
This Shabbat, as we turn our attention to God and to our sacred priorities as Jews, let us also reflect upon and live by the fundamental beliefs, the values and ideals first declared by our nation’s founders. May we each see to the well-being of nation, through our own right-conduct, through our desire to serve our county and through our own examples of justice and compassion.
A prayer for our Country -Mishkan T’filah Siddur O Guardian of life and liberty, may our nation always merit Your protection. Teach us to give thanks for what we have by sharing it with those who are in need. Keep our eyes open to the wonders of creation. and alert to the care of the earth. May we never be lazy in the work of peace: may we honor those who have died in defense of our ideals. Grant our leaders wisdom and forebearance. May they govern with justice and compassion. Help us all to appreciate one another, and to respect the many ways that we may serve You. May our homes be safe from affliction and strife, and our country be sound in body and spirit. Amen.
