“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”
First Amendment, U.S. Constitution

So while we celebrate with fireworks and barbeques, I’m sure that there are some of those out there who would rather not have freedom of speech as it stands today. Or to put it another way, they would like to squelch others’ freedom of speech because they don’t agree with them. Lately I’ve become incredibly aware of this injustice.
Yes, there are barriers and limits to freedom of speech. Yelling “Fire!” in a crowded movie theater. Threaten the life the the president. Stuff like that you can’t do.
But we need to be acutely aware that…yes, there are people out there who will disagree with your opinion. Your duty isn’t there to squelch their opinion, but to actually weigh the pros and cons of said opinion. Offer a better opinion….a better solution to a problem. Just don’t silence the messenger. For by silencing the messenger you have become the monster we have fought so hard against…in World War II, any conflict with the Communists, the war on Terrorism. The enemies we fought against during these 3 conflicts had one thing in common: Tyranny that keeps people from speaking against the government or those individuals in power.
New and different opinions are what makes this country the best and brightest nation on earth. Freedom to say whatever you want and not be threatened by it should be the fundamental right of every man.
So fly the flag this 4th. Then be sure to ask yourself if you really support the freedom of speech so fundamental to our society, even when you disagree with the speech presented.
Related story: Bloggers can’t be sued for libel.