A very American thing to do

If we forget were we've come from, we don't know where we're going

On January 11, 1989, at 9:02 p.m., President Ronald Reagan delivered his farewell address from the Oval Office at the White House.

His concluding remarks are as relevant today as they were 35 years ago. Maybe more.

Definitely worth thinking about as America celebrates its independence.

Here's the money quote:

"If we forget what we did, we won't know who we are. I'm warning of an eradication of the American memory that could result, ultimately, in an erosion of the American spirit. Let's start with some basics: more attention to American history and a greater emphasis on civic ritual.

"And let me offer lesson number one about America: All great change in America begins at the dinner table. So, tomorrow night in the kitchen I hope the talking begins. And children, if your parents haven't been teaching you what it means to be an American, let 'em know and nail 'em on it. That would be a very American thing to do."

Independence Day is not about picnics and fireworks. It's about remembering who we are as a people and what we've accomplished as a nation. It's about the need for enlightened leadership and responsible followership. And it's all on our shoulders.

Please click for a longer excerpt and link to the full address.