Let's celebrate our national common bonds

The adage of "United we stand and divided we fall" has never been more true than it is today. As we celebrate Independence Day, it's good to remember the name of our nation -- the United States of America. What are matters we all can unite in without division? Here's a short list:

The inherent worth of all people, regardless of alliances with political parties, religious persuasion or subscription to one class or another.

The essential right to liberty and justice for all.

Compassion for those less fortunate than ourselves.

Protection and preservation of our environment, which sustains all life.

The pursuit of happiness.

Such principles as these are the very things that have made us into a great nation, and these same principles will take us into a bright future. In the past few years we seem to have forgotten and been at each other's throats. It is time to remember and return. Happy Independence Day.

JOHN JONES
Mount Washington