Declaration of Independence
Lawrence S. Pertillar

Reflect the right to be who you are…
With a declaration of independence,
Defended under the eyes of God!
Achieve your greatness.
Share and bring it out of others.
Expect it from yourself,
And everyone will respect you.
This is the process much neglected.
Unmask your heart from dreams sheltered!
Stand up and welcome them.
They did not appear in your mind…
Just to rest unrealized,
Criticized and left ignored.
And betrayed by dismissed wishes.
They need you to make them come true.
Make them flourish!

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On this 4th of July, please remind President Obama of his pledge to repeal the military’s Dont-Ask-Don’t-Tell policy.  It is, after all, our right to celebrate who we are that makes us truly American.