On this chilly January day I yearned for the warmth of July 4th, the warmth that comes from knowing you belong in the land your ancestors toiled upon as slaves, and died for in wars.

Though all men were declared equal in 1776, a terrible political compromise meant people of certain racial heritages were not considered full men.

Patriotism has been reduced to wearing flag lapel pins and adorning bumper stickers that read: "I Support the Troops." Where is the courage that exemplifies the spirit of 1776?

Five years ago, when Bush said "bring 'em on!", he was inviting Iraqis to try to kill American troops. Few things a commander-in-chief could say would be as reprehensible as this comment.

Let me tell you a story about 56 men who risked everything -- their fortunes and their lives -- to take a stand for truth.