Colorado ? Barack Obama urged people Wednesday to look past the “bustle and busyness” of their everyday lives this Fourth of July weekend to find a way to help make the American dream real not just for themselves, but for all.

The call for service is part of a flag-draped week focused on God, country, veterans and freedom. They are larger-than-life themes, all prominent in the successful campaigns of President Bush and aimed at introducing Obama to Americans who know little about the presumed Democratic nominee – or who may be skeptical based on what they’ve heard.

Before a boisterous University of Colorado crowd, Obama said the quiet following Friday’s Independence Day celebrations would be a good time to consider how to contribute “to our most pressing national challenges,” whether in the military, overseas or just next door.

“Loving your country shouldn’t just mean watching fireworks on the Fourth of July,” Obama said.