Symbols of America Represent More than Our History

 By State Rep. Brian Hill 

There are many symbols that represent our freedom and remind us of what we stand for and of  those who have sacrificed all that we might have freedom: the U.S. flag, the cross, the  declaration of independence, the original 13 star flag by Betsy Ross, the list continues.  

These symbols have stood the test of time. They represent what we hold most dear: liberty, hope,  faith, sacrifice, equality, freedom, life. Although these symbols hold no power within themselves,  the meaning they stand for is untamable and unstoppable. It is a fire that cannot be smothered  and a thirst that cannot be quenched by any other remedy but freedom.  

My fellow Americans, that is what these symbols stand for. These are the very symbols of our  history and should stand as the North Star to our future. Let us not grow weary. Let us not stand  silent in that dark night, but rather let us stand for the flag and kneel at the cross and with hearts  of gratitude be grateful for those who died so that we could have these enduring symbols of our  true freedom.  

John Adams, one of our country’s Founding Fathers, wrote to his wife Abigail that he was well  aware of the “toil and blood and treasure that it will cost us to maintain this declaration,” but that  the end would prove well worth the means.  

Just as President Adams predicted, it has taken much toil, blood and treasure to maintain our  rights from numerous threats. Many signers of the Declaration of Independence would go on to  fight in the Revolutionary War. Many lost their possessions and some lost their lives. We fight  many battles today, both literal and metaphorical, to maintain our rights. But, as President Adams  predicted, the end has proven well worth the means.  

I hope you spent Independence Day earlier this month reflecting on the values these symbols  represent and the roles they play in our day-to-day lives. We are incredibly blessed to live in a  country that recognizes the importance of upholding these values, but we must continue to fight  to ensure these rights are preserved for future generations. Our Founders recognized that a  country that respects these rights is worth fighting for; we have followed in their footsteps for  243 years, and we must continue to do so each and every day.  

May God’s mercy and grace forever bless America! 

Rep. Brian Hill represents District 47 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district  includes Canadian and Grady counties.