Independence Day

This is the day for our national celebration. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, declaring the 13 Colonies independence from England. The first public readings took place on July 8, 1776 reportedly marked by the ringing of bells and the firing of muskets and canon. The first celebration of the date took place on July 4, 1777 also marked by the ringing of bells, the firing of canon and muskets, setting off of fireworks and lighting of bonfires. Parades, picnics and fireworks were becoming a traditional way to mark the day by the 1800’s.

Today, fireworks displays, parades, picnics and politicians shaking hands are the order of the day and well they should be. Celebration of the day is a natural out letting of fun filled pride and we should be proud. In our short history as a nation we have come a long way. We are far from perfect but such is the nature of a work in progress, especially when people are involved in the process. We are like a sculpture still being formed the artist, shaving a bit here, reforming the clay there, and using his tool to shape it a bit ever working toward his ideal.

No other nation is as generous in helping those in need be it here at home or abroad. Just look at the help given freely to victims of natural disasters over the decades. No other nation has freed or fought to bring freedom to more people. No other nation has fought so fiercely against tyranny and aggression yet has kept no land in conquest. Land retained was only enough to bury her dead. She then became a friend to help the former enemy rebuild. Witness Germany and Japan in World War II.

Yes, there’s still work to be done, but for today, rest, celebrate and be proud!

“Thus may the 4th of July, that glorious and ever memorable day, be celebrated through America, by the sons of freedom, from age to age till time shall be no more. Amen and Amen.”

Virginia Gazette July 18, 1777