Today, the 4^th of July, we celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of this great nation. As Jews, we sometimes feel a conflict between our allegiance to our ancestral homeland of Israel and our diaspora homeland, the United States of America. Israel is and will forever be the one and only true national homeland of our people. The United States has offered our people something that we have not experienced in 2,000 years of dispersion and diaspora, absolute freedom. It is in this great country that we can learn Torah, observe mitzvos, choose our professions, accumulate wealth and be part of greater society. We have the freedom to be as religious, pious, devoted and dedicated as we choose. Further more these very freedoms and rights are protected by law. Although, we are still in galus (diaspora), we must thank God each and every day for this great nation.

We are living in tumultuous times. We seem to have lost the ability to dialogue with dignity. It is difficult to read or listen to the news without hearing personal attacks on elected officials. In the current political climate, it is difficult to have a meaningful discussion without being attacked for one's views. My dear friends, everyone, on all sides of the aisle and in all branches of government is guilty of this. The media is guilty of this. We, the citizens of this great country, are guilty of this. I have always taught my children to speak with respect, even to people with whom they may disagree. We can debate issues and we can advocate vociferously and passionately for our individual positionsn but always with respect. There have certainly been times when I have not lived by this rule, but I hope that to be the exception. Hillel and Shamai spent much time debating important Halachic issues, yet, they would always deferentially stand up, one for the other.

There are many serious issues that confront us as a nation. Immigration is certainly front and center. Illegal immigration is a challenge and threat to our national security. And even if one agrees with the need for greater border control, it is devastating to see families being separated, it is heartbreaking to witness children being removed from their parents. For illegal immigration, and many other issues, there are no easy solutions. These are issues which define our very national identity. But we must debate with dignity and tackle issues not people. We must avoid the lure (and momentary satisfaction) of personal assaults and attacks. We must continue to focus on all that makes this country great and not define her by her imperfections. 

We must take the time to recognize the men and women of the armed forces who are willing to lay down their lives to protect our freedom. They wage the battles which occur thousands of miles from our soil. They leave their families behind, so that we can dwell in safety and security with ours. We may not know their names, but our hearts are filled with gratitude. 

We express our gratitude to the Founding Fathers for having the courage to stand up to tyranny and begin a new world order which has continued to this day. We thank our soldiers who sacrifice to allow us to continue to enjoy the freedoms and democratic values of this nation. We beseech God to inspire our leaders to lead this great nation with wisdom, strength, compassion and moral fortitude. 

God bless America and may God continue to shower His blessing upon His people and all humanity. 

Kol Tuv,

Rabbi Shmuel Silber