With the 4th of July right around the corner, it might we worth a moment to think about two words; 'dedication' and 'conviction'.
When we describe someone as dedicated, we observe them to be committed to a purpose. Conviction is the foundation, the deep belief, that supports the dedication we observe.
The signers of The Declaration of Independence understood that their name on that document was an act of treason- punishable by death. They signed anyway.
They knew that the colonists had a disturbingly small chance of victory against the mighty power of the British military who was better trained, better equipped, better organized, and known to be a world power. They signed anyway.
They also knew that, even in the unlikely chance of victory, their fortunes (most were living comfortably) would be lost, wiping out their years, and sometimes generations, of work and positioning. They signed anyway.
The conviction to creating a better life and dedication to that cause was put to the test during the War of 1812. The British had seized the Capitol and burned the president's house (now the White House). A ferocious bombardment of Fort McHenry, and the flag that flew there, once again proved that conviction and dedication could endure terrible punishment.
Defenders of the fort used whatever they could to prop up the American flag during the 27 hours and 1,500 cannonballs, shells, and newly conceived 'Congreve' rockets. When the shooting stopped, Francis Scott Key observed that "Our flag was still there."
Conviction. Dedication. Putting effort into an ideal in order to make a better life. A wish for us all.
'Till Next Time,
Doug
"The Curious Roaster"
P.S. If you have ideas for us to explore, shoot an email to ask@mistergcoffee.com!
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