Independence Day

A few days ago, an original copy of the Declaration of Independence, printed on July 4, 1776, was sold at an online auction for $8.1 million. The sale set a record for the highest amount ever paid for an American historical document, as well as for any item purchased over the Internet. The fact that someone was willing to pay such a high price for the document illustrates how strongly many Americans feel about our nation’s independence.

However, the document and all it represents have come at so great a cost, it truly is priceless. Beginning with the first shots fired in the American Revolution, our independence and all of its freedoms have been paid for over the centuries with hundreds of thousands of lives.

One of the reasons I enjoy spending the Fourth of July in New England is because there is a strong connection here to the spirit ofindependence that moved our Forefathers (and mothers) to found a new nation based on the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Reminders of battles waged and sacrifices made by the soldiers fighting for our independence from England are scattered throughout the New England states where they took place hundreds of years ago. For example, the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War was fought in Machias in 1775. Historical museums, battlefields, and other sites commemorate the hard-fought War for independence and allow us to learn about the war that led to the founding of this country. Regardless of how far back one’s ancestors go, we in Maine and New England are keenly aware of those who came before us and sacrificed so that we could enjoy the freedom we have today.

Each year I look forward to celebrating the Fourth of July holiday in Maine with the crowds of family and friends. Again, this year I am proud to take part in parades and celebrations in Bangor and Eastport. It is a wonderful opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate with games, parades, and fireworks. However, as we celebrate we should remember all that this holiday embodies, and use the occasion to reflect on the importance of our nation’s independence.

It is the brave leadership and courage of the Revolutionary fighters and their families, as well as our Founding Statesmen, that we celebrate each year on the Fourth of July. The basic rights and freedoms that we may take for granted — the right to voice our opinions, and to participate in our government by electing our leaders — have their foundation in the bravery and foresight these patriots displayed more than 200 years ago.

So I urge you this Fourth of July, as you ride on floats in your town’s parade, as you enjoy your friends and family at a picnic, as you watch the magnificent fireworks, take a moment to remember what this holiday means. Take a moment to truly celebrate our independence.

Susan Collins is Maine’s junior U.S. senator.