Rockwall, TX (June 26, 2025) – Independence Day is more than a holiday. It’s truly a time to reflect, celebrate, and reaffirm the core values that define our nation. As we gather to honor this meaningful day, I want to use my voice to remind us all of the core values of the United States, values that generations before us have fought to protect and preserve, and that today’s generation continues to defend and uphold. These ideals are not just words; they are the foundation of our freedom and the spirit of the American people.
The core values of the United States are rooted in the founding principles expressed in documents like the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. While interpretations can vary, the most widely recognized core values include:
Liberty: The right to personal freedom and autonomy, including freedom of speech, religion, and the press.
Equality: The belief that all individuals are equal under the law and deserve equal opportunity.
Democracy: A government by the people, where citizens have the power to vote and participate in decision-making.
Justice: Fair treatment and due process under the law for all people.
Individualism: The value placed on personal responsibility, initiative, and self-reliance.
The Rule of Law: The principle that everyone, including leaders, is subject to the law.
Patriotism: A sense of pride and loyalty to the country and its ideals.
Pursuit of Happiness: The right to seek fulfillment and personal well-being in one’s own way, as long as it doesn’t infringe on others’ rights.
These values form the foundation of the American identity. How lucky are we to have been born in this time and this place?
My feelings on Independence Day have fluctuated over the years, as I grow and learn. As I become more open to others’ points of view, as I continue to see my friends and family fighting for these core values; and as I support my son, a Captain in the United States Air Force, and his sweet wife. Freedom is complicated. But it is always, always worth fighting for.
Most years, a hot dog cookout, a pool party, and a red-white-and-blue dessert don’t feel like enough to express how proud I am to be part of this great country, and the people who make it what it is. But then I remember: if grilled meat and some melty s’mores are what bring us together to celebrate our freedom—and our ongoing fight to expand and protect it—count me in.
The recipe I am sharing with you today is easy, fun and undeniably delicious. It’s a hit with all ages and perfect for getting your people involved, whether they’re helping assemble or just showing up to snack.
Stars, Stripes & S’mores
Ingredients:
- 1 bag large marshmallows
- 1 bag semi sweet chocolate chips
- Blue and red crystal sprinkles
- Graham crackers for dipping
- Fruit for dipping
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees
- Spread chocolate chips on bottom of sheet pan.
- Pour blue sprinkles into one bowl and red into another.
- Cut marshmallows in half, dip the sticky side into sprinkles…blue first to create the “stars” then red to create the “stripes”. Put the sticky side down on the white stripe.
- Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until chocolate is melted and marshmallows are puffy.
- Remove from oven and enjoy immediately! Dip, graham crackers, and fruit… even pretzel sticks would be good!
Melissa Tate is a home cook and writer with a passion for hospitality, food gifts, and fine, locally-produced fare. Along with writing, cooking, and creating care packages, she helps her husband run their working horse and cattle ranch, Tate Farms here in Rockwall County. She is currently writing her first cookbook with a New York based literary agent. You can find more of her work at melissatatetx.com and on Instagram and Facebook at @MelissaTateTx
Cooking with Ease: Sweet Land of Liberty (and S’mores) added by Melanie M on
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