On 3 July, 1776, future president of the United States, John Adams, dipped his pen into his inkwell to compose a letter to his trusted partner and wife, Abigail Adams.  As he began to write, he was full of emotion and enthusiasm. In the letter he reflected on the historic moment the Declaration of Independence had been passed in Philadelphia the day prior. Adams had played a vital part.  

Of that July 2 passage, Adams wrote to his wife: “I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”  

The vision Adams had has certainly come to pass. The only difference is that July 4 was the date affixed to the Declaration rather than July 2 which was the day of the historic vote in favour of independence. Of course, The Fourth of July in America is now the iconic day of celebration, but it perhaps would be more fitting to have the celebration to commemorate the actual day of the dramatic vote. The Second of July just doesn’t seem to have the same ring to it – too many years have passed.    

As I reflect on this Charter of Freedom, the Declaration of Independence, I look through the lens of where America now stands these 248 years later. For many that lens is fogged up with the dust of doubt. Several writers and purported pundits, forge a narrative presenting evidence of a decaying America or a country beset by a preponderance of problems. These perspectives seem to feed their insatiable appetite to attract appeal as opinion writers.  We even have leaders who seek high elective office who stir up fear and anger by suggesting that America is in decline or a failing nation. Their voices are like weeds that starve out the nutrients of a society that has the potential of a vibrant bloom.   

Denying that America has a myriad of complex challenges would be naïve. However, one of the best ingredients to addressing and overcoming social, economic, and policy problems is to remain hopeful and confident in our collective ability to address those obstacles.  

One of my favourite poems about America is Walt Whitman’s “I Hear America Singing.” The poem pays homage to Americans with their unique voices who have helped and continue to stitch together the melody and colourful fabric of America. 

As a devoted follower of Whitman, I am one who believes in the shine of America, and the power of a choir of diverse voices. When John Adams wrote that letter to Abigail after the Declaration of Independence was passed, he could have never imagined what America would become, but in his anxiousness he possessed hope and gratitude.  

As you read this column in Cornwall, know that this spirit in America is still alive and well. I see it every day and hear the song around every corner. It remains a place Cornwall should still see as a land of opportunity. My letter on 3 July 2024 to you is that I will continue to do what I can to support, celebrate, and grow these special links between Cornwall and the United States. The future is bright!     

Ian Houston is a regular columnist for this paper. He resides in the Washington, DC area.