Happy Fourth of July

In the 1950s classic television western episode, “The Roy Rogers Show: Boys Day in Paradise Valley,” Roy works directly with a group of boys to mentor them in learning more about citizenship. Being a proud, responsible citizen was a principle included in several of the creeds, codes, and cowboy commandments of early TV’s western heroes.

From the Roy Rogers Riders Club Rules, item #10 states that as citizens, we should “Always respect our flag and our country. We live in the greatest country in the world and it’s up to all of us to do everything we can to show our love for America.”

Hopalong Cassidy’s Creed for American Boys and Girls stated: “Children in many foreign lands are less fortunate than you. Be glad and proud you are an American.”

The Lone Ranger Creed concludes with the tenet, “I believe in my Creator, my country, my fellow men.” This was a recurring theme with the Lone Ranger, such as in the TV episode “One Nation Indivisible,” in which he said, “I like to think of myself as an American who believes in the future of our Country, with its people living and working together.”

All of the above appears to be ideals still worth holding. While it is true that our society seems more divisive in character today compared with the 1950s, perhaps we can make a positive impact in our local communities by personally exhibiting these ideals of good citizenship.

What does a good citizen look like? Let us consider this from the New Testament: “Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” (Titus 3:1-2, ESV).

Hope you all enjoy a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday!