07-10-2016, 09:41 AM
Independence Day: What does it Truly Mean to you?
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As July 4th Weekend comes to an end and the BBQ grills cool off, it is time for us all to get back to work and our daily routines. Aside from the traditional ways this U.S holiday is observed with picnics, fireworks and gatherings, how many of us know why we even celebrate it on July 4th?
240 years ago on July 4th 1776 the Continental Congress declared The United States of America an independent nation with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. At least that is what we were all taught in grade school right?
But that isn’t exactly true. Did you know it was really decided on July 2nd and the declaration wasn’t actually signed until August 2, 1776 when all the editing and changes were made and agreed upon?
For the first 100 years after the Declaration was made official, people did not take it serious. Democratic-Republicans were in favor of the Declaration and Thomas Jefferson but the Federalists felt it was “too French” and too “anti-British”. FFS It isn’t a party until someone loses an eye right? SMH
Anyway, all the drama between the parties seemed to fade when the Federalists fell apart as new parties were created in support of the declaration. As we all know, Politics can be complicated and a topic of many debates since we all have our own points of views and opinions. So I won’t even go there.
Today, most people don’t flock to Washington, DC to protest the declaration or even care to get a glimpse of the declaration- instead many are rushing liquor stores, beer distributors, local pot dealers and what have you. Even Walmart and Costco for the last of the hamburgers, hot dogs and buns- or those parking lot tents along the side of main roads to rack up on cheap explosives to set off while cities display their own thunderous displays setting off car alarms and scaring small children and family pets. Times have certainly changed over the centuries.
It really doesn’t matter how we celebrate just as long as we are with family and friends, being safe and we don’t lose any fingers.
To me, it is a day like any other. Life itself should be celebrated. Sure, I am proud to be an American, and yes I went to Walmart, the liquor store-and got my cheap fireworks for a grand BBQ with family and friends, but most importantly I'm just grateful to be in a country that is free.
I hope everyone had a wonderful and safe Fourth of July weekend. Now let’s get back to Summer!
-Lanai