We are a free and prosperous people because of God’s blessings and the character of past generations. Independent men and women who looked beyond their own self-interests shaped this land of opportunity. They did not look to the government to guide their every step or guarantee every outcome. Their spirit of generosity and optimism was applied to their families, their neighbors, and, like the Good Samaritan, to anyone who needed it. They also tempered their charity with a realistic understanding of what role government is intended play.

The Declaration of Independence says it best: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men…”

Governments exist to secure our God-given, unalienable rights. Government should never supplant our rights and responsibilities as individual citizens.



It is also our personal responsibility to uphold these values for future generations. If we expect to see even greater days ahead we must never lose sight of our American Spirit. Let us resolve anew to join those who signed that first document of our nation: “with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”

My strength to do anything in this arena is not my own. I rely on my Lord Jesus Christ for daily wisdom, guidance and courage. I covet your prayers as I continue to work as an elected official for the people of Colorado.