This weekend, Americans pause to commemorate the most defining moment in our storied history: the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The values the framers fought for and held in their hearts as they signed the document are the same ones we cherish most today — life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

As colonial soldiers battled the high taxes and restricted liberties imposed by the British Empire, Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence to reject Great Britain’s heavy-handed control over the colonies. The document incited colonists to continue to fight for their rights to live as free, independent individuals.

Today, we should strive to remember the principles of liberty and self-reliance that were set down by our Founding Fathers so many years ago. We should pause to remember the sacrifices of those who gave their very lives in the birth and defense of our nation. We also should remember those military men and women who stand in guard of our liberties as we celebrate with backyard barbecues and ice cream.

We are fortunate to live in these United States of America and should never take for granted — the freedom to voice our opinions, practice a religion we believe in, and receive a quality education. As you celebrate this weekend, remind the youngsters among you of the blood shed that you and I might enjoy this day.