Derived from the Declaration of Independence and legally codified in the U.S. Constitution, American freedom functions as a negative constitution, explicitly dictating what the government cannot do to its citizens. Rather than granting rights, the American system is built on the philosophy that human liberties are inherent, unalienable, and merely protected by the state.

And we do all enjoy our freedoms, especially for those who enjoy blowing off fireworks in the middle of the summer. Our stance is that we generally enjoy freedoms over government restrictions. However, you must feel compassion for the large number of paid and primarily volunteer firefighters that are out there risking their lives to save others.

You may be aware of the fire near Crawford, Nebraska, which is now nearly 1,000 acres and at 0% containment. But did you know there is a series of fires in Colorado and on the Utah border, virtually covering the entire west half of Colorado?

Three firefighters have lost their lives already. Emily Barker, 38, of Clinton Township. Nick Hutcherson, 27, of Glendale, Arizona. And Sidney Watson, 26, of Warrior, Alabama.

The firefighters were assigned to the Rifle Heel Attack Crew and were engaged in the initial attack operations on the Knowles Fire when the incident occurred.

Two additional firefighters were injured during the incident and are receiving medical care. That Snyder Fire on the Colorado-Utah border is now over 30,000 acres. Please pray for the families of the victims and for everyone out there fighting these fires.

Hopefully more positive news tomorrow.