This post was originally written for July 4, 2015, but since this year I didn't have time to put an Independence Day blog post together I thought this one was worth sharing again.
Ever wonder why it is an American tradition to stay up late on the 4th of July, lying out on the lawn and swatting mosquitos, and exclaim over all those transient colored lights and smoke and hear the reverberating bang of fireworks? Why fireworks? Why on this holiday in particular?
It's because of this...
The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.
- John Adams, July 3, 1776
So while we all love a holiday for its freedom from our common work routine, its family memories made over barbecues or picnic lunches, or whatever we do to celebrate - let's not forget it's more than just another day to enjoy the pleasure of leisure or be with folks we love.
There's a reason for it.
Happy Independence Day!
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