Throughout history, the ideals of unyielding independence and profound personal freedom have been foundational to the American spirit. While popular mythology may suggest these traits endure, we have our doubts regarding their current vitality.
Indeed, America once thrived as the land of the free. This was a time long before 46.4 million citizens relied on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards for their daily essentials. It was also a period when farmers could sell fresh milk directly to consumers without fear of a 5 a.m. visit from federal marshals.
Today, many of the principles that inspired America’s War of Independence have been relegated to mere concepts. The philosophy of limited government and individual liberty has been replaced by extensive bureaucratic governance and collectivism. Gone are the days when individuals could earn a living without the IRS creating a bureaucratic nightmare. Likewise, the innocent act of kids selling lemonade can now attract the attention of regulators, shutting them down for a lack of a permit.
Over the past century, Washington has morphed into a significant financial drain. Within the walls of the Capitol Building, legislators and their aides are singularly focused on devising new laws to extract money from the populace. The Federal Register, published daily, provides a stark insight into the multitude of agencies and their never-ending stream of regulations and notices.
For example, just last week, the Supreme Court informed the nation that Obamacare is not merely a health care initiative; instead, it functions as a tax program. Citizens are now mandated to have health insurance or face a tax penalty that can exceed the insurance cost. In doing so, the Court reinforced one of the largest entitlement expansions in decades, just as existing financial commitments threaten to undermine the nation’s fiscal stability.
This scenario exemplifies the ongoing erosion of American independence and personal freedoms. However, today is not the time to dwell on this loss. Instead, let us take a brief respite from our usual market observations and focus on the unique attributes of This Great Nation.
A Most Agreeable Place
With Independence Day approaching, many have begun their festivities, prompting us to reflect on this remarkable country we call home. Although These United States may have strayed from the founders’ original vision, our goal today is not to lament but to celebrate with gratitude.
Firstly, we struggle to think of a more agreeable place to reside. Despite the financial troubles plaguing our federal and state governments, the essential functions of everyday life continue to operate smoothly.
Simplistically, turning on a tap yields fresh water, and we enjoy hot showers daily. Sewage is not flowing through our streets, and our garbage is reliably collected every Tuesday, come rain or shine.
Within a short stroll from our home, we can access four different grocery stores, all well-stocked with an array of fresh produce at incredibly reasonable prices. For instance, just this week, five ears of corn cost us only $0.99—less than $0.20 each, practically a steal.
So, why should we be concerned about the bankrupt state of our government and its leaders?
Simply put… we don’t.
Why should we, when our lives remain filled with such delightful experiences? Even if we did care, what influence could we truly exert?
Nothing beyond our current approach—observing, chuckling, and breaking into laughter.
Celebrating Independence Day with Gratitude
In the grand scheme of things, it matters little if we oppose our leaders as they guide the nation toward financial calamity under the guise of benevolence. This outcome appears inevitable—who are we to thwart it?
Regardless of these realities, life remains beautiful. Our spouses continue to be lovely, our coffee retains its bold flavor, and the weariness from a long day’s work still persists. The sun will rise, birds will sing, and flowers will bloom.
Thus, even in an uncertain economy, as Washington’s misguided but well-meaning antics extract from us for our own supposed benefit, we choose to smile and savor what little remains of this land of opportunity where eccentricity thrives and individuality is celebrated. We intend to seize the moment and enjoy every experience.
So, we will do what we always do: gather at Long Beach Harbor with our family and countless friends. We will indulge in funnel cakes and ice cream, sway to the tunes of a street musician, and marvel at the vibrant parades down the boardwalk. We’ll share jokes, laugh heartily, and when the sun sets and the stars ignite the sky, we will revel in the spectacular fireworks display over the vast Pacific Ocean.
We will cheer, shout joyfully, and express our glee.
And we will celebrate the Independence of These United States.
Enjoy your holiday!
Sincerely,
MN Gordon
for Economic Prism
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