The Declaration of Independence is a remarkable document. The history of it, the process of its formation, the drama, the politics, are all captivating. But its purpose is singular and inspiring: to express the American mind. It outlines what we believe to be true about humanity, human affairs, government. But we too often forget the nobility of the American founding, forget the eloquence and wisdom of the founders, forget the ideas and principles upon which our democracy is built. Perhaps hearing these words again might not only reacquaint us with these things but inspire us to recommit ourselves to them.