According to wikipedia, Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, and political speeches and ceremonies. My guess is that for most of us, a great day of relaxing and eating more than necessary will factor into what we do. Yet, I would bet that many will not give a thought to what this day is supposed to commemorate. It has come to be marked by a few whoops of, "USA ... USA ... USA!" However, this day is, at its heart, a time to not only recognize and appreciate the freedoms that we now enjoy (and likely take for granted), but also to reflect on those upon whom this country was built. Countless thousands gave their lives to support their position and their dream. Although the names are long since forgotten in the dust of history, we should recognize that there was a dear price to pay for all that we enjoy. Blessings to all my online friends.
