Independence and Obligation

Today is the 4th of July, the day that we celebrate as the birth of the United States of America. Of course, it isn't really the day on which the Union was formed, which can't be localized to a single moment in any case. But that doesn't matter; what does is the moment taken to recognize the ideals for which it stood then and hopefully stands still.

For me, this means that I was never told that a girl couldn't do science (or anything else for that matter), or that I would have to bow to anyone. I am grateful for these things, and for a wealth of freedoms I enjoy every day. I also recognize that I have an obligation to my State to be an informed and active participant, which includes being a voice of dissent.

So, I encourage everyone to revisit the Constitution and its amendments, and reflect upon the ways we have -- and, more importantly, have not -- upheld them. And make plans to do a better job next year.

Happy Independence Day.