texas independence day

From the Texas Declaration of Independence - March 2, 1836

"When a government has ceased to protect the lives, liberty and property of the people, from whom its legitimate powers are derived, and for the advancement of whose happiness it was instituted, and so far from being a guarantee for the enjoyment of those inestimable and inalienable rights, becomes an instrument in the hands of evil rulers for their oppression. "

These words, written 176 years ago claiming Texas' independence from Mexico, have a contemporary ring.

Lone Star Flag, Fort Worth Stockyards
4.16.2011