Happy Fourth of July!
According to author William Walsh, in 1826, when an ailing John Adams was asked to give a toast to be given in his name on the upcoming Fourth of July, Adams replied, "Independence forever."
When asked if there was anything he'd like to add to this less than loquacious response, he answered, "Not one word."
When asked if there was anything he'd like to add to this less than loquacious response, he answered, "Not one word."
The morning of the Fourth found Adams on his deathbed. Bells rang and cannon fired, and Adams asked why. On hearing it was Independence Day, he whispered once more, "Independence forever."
That afternoon, Adams died. But may his wish be ours and inform our actions: "Independence forever."