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Every year, as July approaches, my family and I find ourselves filled with excitement. The summer season is in full swing, and the kids are finally free from the confines of school. But what truly makes July special for us is Independence Day. Second only to Christmas, the Fourth of July holds a special place in my heart. It has become a cherished tradition in our family, one that traces back to the time of my great-grandparents. We even have photographs capturing their own Fourth of July celebrations from long ago.
Our family gatherings during this holiday are marked by delicious food, lively games, and, of course, a grand display of fireworks. I often tell people that if they happen to drive down our country road on that day, they’ll be treated to a breathtaking spectacle of dazzling explosions illuminating the night sky.
Among all the wonderful memories we’ve made, one Fourth of July party at my Uncle Jack’s house stands out in my mind. We spent the entire day and night swimming in the lake, creating memories that will last a lifetime. However, as much as I anticipate seeing friends and family, there’s a deeper reason why I hold this holiday in such high regard.
As I reflect on the traditions that have been passed down through the generations of my family, I am reminded of our country’s rich history, which extends far beyond our own personal experiences. I am reminded of the brilliance of our founding fathers, who laid the foundation for the incredible nation we proudly call home.
Being an American fills me with immense pride, and I am grateful for the sacrifices made by the early settlers who gave their lives to create the greatest country in the world. The genius of our founding fathers becomes evident when we consider the Declaration of Independence they crafted and signed. It established a unique framework that protected the ideals of liberty, free speech, freedom of religion, and due process of law for all who would call this land their home, both then and now.
America stands alone as the only country where justice applies equally to both the wealthy and the poor. In our great nation, citizens can live freely, unburdened by the fear of tyranny. The principles envisioned by our founding fathers in 1776 still safeguard us today. Their creation, derived from “the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God,” reminds us that freedom cannot exist without integrity. The intricate system of checks and balances they devised demonstrates their remarkable foresight and unparalleled wisdom.
Our country deserves to be celebrated because it is simply the best place in the world. We proudly hold the status of a global superpower, and it all traces back to the solid foundation upon which our country was built. Living in America is an incredible blessing, and while it’s easy for many to take this privilege for granted, the Fourth of July serves as a powerful reminder of how fortunate we are to call this place our home.
So, as you enjoy precious moments with loved ones or create vibrant explosions with bottle rockets (if your family is anything like mine), remember that this holiday is a celebration of freedom, independence, equality, and the extraordinary beauty of our nation. Just as we gather in church every year to commemorate the purpose of Christmas, I encourage you to do the same on Independence Day. Take a moment to express gratitude to the higher power above that we have the privilege of calling this great country our home. Happy Independence Day!
