American's Creed

William Tyler Page authored The American's Creed in response to a nation-wide essay contest and was accepted on behalf of the American people by the United States House of Representatives April 3, 1918 AD.

Page said of the essay that it was "'a summing up', in 100 words, of the basic principles of American political faith." In the creed you will find quotes from Daniel Webster, Edward Everett Hale's "The Man Without Country", The Constitution, The Gettysburg Address, and The Declaration of Independence.

"I BELIEVE IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.
"I believe it is my duty to my country to love it; support its Constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies."

Considering that this document was accepted on behalf of the American people by elected representatives, I think it would be a great benefit to our country if we would re-visit these words.

A Government of the people, by the people, for the people - have we forgotten the fact that we govern ourselves? It seems as though elected officials today operate on the presumption that they have a right to their office regardless of what they do. A representative, senator, cabinet member, or even the President need to understand that they are a citizen of the same nation and that they can be replaced by another citizen.

Whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed - political power comes from us (the governed) and should be used accordingly. Americans should never be forced to do anything that has not been agreed upon by the governed. A perfect example of this is the current Health Care legislation. If left up to a voter initiative - it would lose. But our elected officials have disregarded to voice of the governed.

A democracy in a republic - I really wonder how many kids in our public school understand this fact? I wonder how many adults know that we aren't a democracy but a democracy within a republic? In other words, our voice is to be heard by those who represent us and then they should represent us, not their own ideals or special interests.

A sovereign Nation of many sovereign States - In today's America, I love to see states once again take up the reigns of their own sovereignty. I enjoy hearing of states like Arizona who understand the necessity of protecting their border. They have the right to do so!

A perfect union...established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes - Memorial Day was a reminder to each of us that the ideals and freedoms of America are worth dying for. We must never forget the sacrifice of our founders, and the willingness to lay down one's life of a soldier. Let us be thankful for those who have paved the way for our freedom and those who died to secure it.

I believe it is my duty... - The latter part of the creed should be required memorization for kids growing up in this country and anyone who wishes to become a citizen. Our nation is made up of immigrants from all over the world. Many of the first Americans came here from other nations seeking refuge, freedom, and prosperity. I believe each nationality has a right to celebrate their heritage as long as we understand that each of us have a national heritage together. We are citizens of the United States of America. We have a common bond. And it is the duty of every American to love our country, support our Constitution (is there an elected official in D.C. that is listening?), obey its laws, respect the flag (the one that is red, white, and blue), and to defend this nation. Can I get an "Amen"?

As a follower of Jesus Christ, I'm thankful to live in a free nation. I'm grateful that God allowed me to be born in this great land. It is my prayer for America that we never forget where we came from, the sacrifices made to make this country great, and never forget that it is God who has blessed us with such great prosperity. To Him be glory and honor throughout the ages.