While it's not surprising to see Legionnaires and Rotarians welling
up at the sights of Independence Day, even the most critical American
can get a tear in their eye at the playing of "America the Beautiful"
along side exploding fireworks.
Some enjoy the day feeling nothing but pride for their country,
their soldiers and their leaders. Others may take issue with some
policies or leaders, but the day is still an important reminder of
everything the country was built on and that we should not take our
freedoms for granted.
In case we forget as we fight the crowds or hurry to find a spot
to view the fireworks, let the prideful anthems and amazing displays
bring back the emotions we felt as children when we first learned of
our country's brave beginnings.
The spirit that inspired the colonialists to rebel is enough to
give anyone pride. Not to mention those founding fathers. Pretty
smart guys with some pretty amazing guidelines for the country's
future. Not perfect of course, but allowing for some adjustments,
which has made all the difference.
So, as current events bring our differences to the forefront, this
is a good day to remember our similar beginnings and to keep in mind
that the same argument can be heard from liberals accused of
anti-patriotism as from soldiers answering how they feel about
anti-war protesters:
The freedom to speak your opinion is one of the things that makes
America great.
