By State Rep. Brooks Landgraf
As we gather with family and friends this July 4th to celebrate our nation’s independence, it’s important to reflect on the journey that brought us here. Our country’s history is a testament to resilience, courage, and the enduring spirit of the American people. And central to this legacy is George Washington, a man whose life and leadership continue to inspire us.
During the French and Indian War, a young George Washington displayed remarkable bravery and fortitude. In 1755, he was involved in the Battle of Monongahela where British and colonial forces were ambushed. Amidst the chaos, Washington, then only a colonel with the Virginia Militia, remained calm, rallying the troops and organizing a retreat that saved many lives. Miraculously, despite having two horses shot out from under him and four bullet holes through his coat, he remained unscathed. This led many to believe that he was under divine protection, a notion that Washington himself seemed to accept with humility.
Fast forward a few decades to the American Revolution. Washington, now the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, faced numerous challenges. One of the most significant was the Conway Cabal, a conspiracy among some senior officers and members of Congress to replace him with Major General Horatio Gates. Despite the political intrigue and attempts to undermine his authority, Washington’s steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment to the cause of independence kept the army and the revolution intact.
Washington’s life and legacy remind us that America’s foundation is built on overcoming adversity. His story is not just about personal valor but also about the divine favor that seemed to guide him and, by extension, our fledgling nation. This sense of being under a protective providence is something that has been part of the American ethos from the very beginning.
Today, our country faces its own set of challenges. From political divisions to social unrest, from economic uncertainties to global threats, it can sometimes feel as though we are more divided than united. Yet, it is during these times of trial that we must remember the lessons of our past. No matter how difficult the circumstances, the American spirit endures.
We are a nation that has weathered storms before. We have faced civil war, economic depression, and global conflicts. Each time, we emerged stronger, driven by a belief in our core values of freedom, justice, and opportunity for all. This belief is not just a matter of faith in ourselves but also in the idea that our country holds a special place in the world, a place under the watchful eye of providence.
As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us honor the legacy of George Washington and all those who have fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. In doing so, we acknowledge that while the path may not always be easy, we are guided by a higher purpose and blessed with a unique favor that has seen us through the darkest times.
God bless Texas!
