We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by the authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare:

That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegianceto the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do.

And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.
 

******

Though we all learned about it in history classes, perhaps the Declaration of Independence is not fully appreciated because of a lack of context to understand just what a bold and dangerous move it was when this nation declared its independence from Great Britain.

When the signers of the declaration said they pledged their lives, fortunes and sacred honor, it was much more than political rhetoric. If the War of Independence hadn't been won, the signers wouldn't have had to worry about personal fortunes and honor; they would most certainly be dead if caught.

And without the later help from friends and allies, notably France and its naval forces, those leaders from the original 13 colonies had every reason to be concerned about such a fate. As it was, the war essentially began in 1775, when the colonies set up the Second Continental Congress and formed a Continental Army. The following year, they formally declared their independence on July 4, 1776, but the war would drag on until 1783.

There's a good opportunity to get some idea of what the life and times were like then thanks to HBO, which has recreated the birth of the nation with its critically acclaimed "John Adams." (The miniseries begins reruns today, and is also available on DVD.) The second installment, "Independence," is a particularly moving portrayal of those brave souls -- and a few not so brave -- who were willing to lead the way in search of freedom and independence.

The scenes concerning the actual drafting of the declaration are gems. Thomas Jefferson, who rightly considered himself a writer and not an orator, thought he'd written a pretty solid, forceful document. But Benjamin Franklin said it needed work, took up his pen and thus became an early example of the fact that everyone needs an editor, even Jefferson.

Today is a fitting time to reflect on the daunting challenges those Founding Fathers faced in creating a nation steeped in freedoms that have been preserved over the ensuing years by others in uniform.

Now to the more serious stuff. Today has become much more than a reminder about our history, and as we celebrate Independence Day, the most American of our holidays, let it be an enjoyable, but safe, commemoration of the nation's birth.

National studies show that more people die in alcohol-related car crashes over the Fourth of July holiday than any other, including New Year's Eve. More people are on the roads longer, often driving long distances to visit family or friends. Warmer weather makes downing a cold beer or a gin and tonic seem more enjoyable. An added concern this year is that the Fourth launches a three-day holiday weekend.

While personal fireworks at one time were a traditional means of celebration, they also, over the course of the years, have become another serious problem associated with this midsummer holiday.

This year, dry conditions again raise the potential for disastrous fires. Careless use of fireworks only exacerbates the situation.

But who needs sparklers and firecrackers? Let the professionals do it. It's a whole lot more spectacular anyway.

In Yakima, an old-fashioned community celebration will be held today at State Fair Park. One World, One Valley, One Nation, the largest one-day event in the county, will run from noon until late tonight.

The celebration will showcase free family activities, music, food vendors and a fireworks display. Parking and admission are free.

The presenting sponsor is the Yakima Herald-Republic. Please join us for an old-fashioned family-friendly Fourth.

Other special events are planned in communities up and down the Valley that feature impressive fireworks displays conducted by professionals.

Enjoy a safe Fourth.

But above all, let's take note of the birthday of a nation -- 232 years old and still going strong.

* Members of the Yakima Herald-Republic editorial board are Michael Shepard, Sarah Jenkins, Bill Lee and Karen Troianello.