Freedom

By Andrew, FPP Intern

“Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!” – Patrick Henry

Patrick Henry was one of the greatest orators in history. In a powerful speech that ended with the now famous phrase “Give me liberty or give me death!” he attempted to convince his fellow delegates to raise a militia to fight the British. Delivered at the Second Virginia Convention on March 23, 1775, Henry’s speech claimed that war had already started. He dared the Convention, and all of Virginia, to join their brethren in the fighting.

Calling on God to forbid him from accepting chains, this fiery orator from Virginia understood not only the importance of freedom, but also the way to get it. Freedom is a gift from God. Many things can hold us captive. We are often locked up in the chains of sin from which only God has the power to free us. Back in 1775 the Colonists were faced with the chains of an oppressive government. It was men like Patrick Henry that eventually threw off the chains with God’s help.

America is founded directly upon the principle of Freedom, which is one of the foundational pillars that keep the nation standing. This country will stand strong as long as its people and its leaders stand united on God’s gift of freedom.