Fourth of July is a great day for BBQ’s, swimming, hot dog eating contests, country music, awkward yet stylish American Flag apparel and of course fireworks! Yes, the Fourth of July is possibly one of America’s greatest holidays but it’s not because of all the wonderful stuff I just mentioned; no it’s wonderful because today we get to celebrate 239 years that our country has come into existence as an independent nation. 239 years!!! If we look back at history, we can honestly say it’s impressive what we have done and overcome as a nation.
When I think of the Fourth of July I find myself filled with great pride. I see a beautiful country that has a beauty not many other countries have. You see our country is made up of many different backgrounds. The reality is you probably know someone who wasn’t born here. Also you probably have had food from cultures from around the world. American freedom is not just about being from different backgrounds or having the ability to travel the world as you please. Rather our freedom is so much more. Here you have the freedom to express yourself, to hold an opinion that is different than your government, you have the freedom to vote, to pray, to own something, to work but most of all you have the freedom to live. The reality is with all of our freedom we often can be divided against each other based upon our own beliefs and principles but I often think back to the unity this nation had on September 12th, 2001.
In great tragedy, Americans are reminded that we have one sacred bond regardless of all our differences and that is the American Flag. So this Fourth of July I want to encourage you to remember those that fought for that flag, what that flag represents and the beauty that this nation has to offer and is capable of. Let your freedom ring!
Happy 4th of July!
