Final answer:
The quote addresses the realization that Great Britain's protection of the American colonies was motivated by self-interest, asserting that Britain was protecting itself from its own enemies rather than the colonies' out of attachment.
Step-by-step explanation:
It appears that the sentiment expressed in the quote concerns the realization that Great Britain's protection of the American colonies was driven by self-interest rather than genuine affection. The statement suggests that Britain's intent was to safeguard itself from its own enemies rather than to protect the colonies for the benefit of the colonies themselves. Therefore, a rewording could be: "We have celebrated the security provided by Great Britain without acknowledging that her actions were motivated by self-interest rather than fondness; it was her own enemies, not ours, that she was guarding against on our behalf."