Jefferson Obelisk
Courtesy Monticello.org
He wrote his own epitaph.
HERE WAS BURIED; THOMAS JEFFERSON; AUTHOR OF THE; DECLARATION OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE OF THE STATUTE OF VIRGINIA FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM AND FATHER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA BORN APRIL 2, 1743 O.S. DIED JULY 4. 1826
Jefferson and John Adams are as essential to America as was George Washington. Of the three, Jefferson was the most complicated – a wealth of intellectual virtue but pragmatically able to ignore his own beliefs in the name of commerce. Author of the Declaration of Independence, yet an owner of slaves.
There is a fascinating radio program in which historian Clay Jenkinson portrays Thomas Jefferson but such that Jefferson is able to converse with us in our time. If you haven’t heard it, give it a try. Click here for more.
sfnowak 
Happy Birthday to America, Americans, to the Fathers of our country, and especially to the many who have died for America and those who live for our country. I have been reading several old books circa 1900’s about what people believed made America special, and why most people are proud to be American. Most said the same things: opportunity, freedom of speech and religion, the ability to get an education, equality, the capacity to work hard and do well, etc.
I believe, of course, these persons are correct. At the same time, I also believe God blessed America like He has all countries and continents. A
possible difference, though, is that early America and Americans ACCEPTED God’s blessings in the form of gifts or talents–and worked hard and together to build a faithful, Christian country–unlike so many countries around the world. Neither did we squander God’s blessings nor did we turn our backs on God: America and Americans have always been faithful and grateful to God. This is why and what makes America exceptional…and the renewal we can–and perhaps must–feel in our souls on this and every Fourth of July. Let us give thanks to God for the gift of our remarkable country, and continue to tell Him: “Yes, Lord, we will accept all that you send us. Amen. (So be it)”
Rick,
Well said! God bless you this special day.
Steve