Today in The Netherlands it’s Monday. Just an ordinary day, the start of a new work week (or vacation if you’re fortunate).
For Americans, it’s much more. July 4th is Independence Day, the day we celebrate our nation’s birth. We recall the sacrifice of our forefathers in throwing off the chains of tyranny to become a country in which freedom – in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness – is treasured.
Above all, we value our democracy: government of the people, by the people, for the people. One person, one vote, without intimidation or coercion. Smooth transitions from one elected administration and Congress to the next. [Please note that I didn’t say smooth discussions…just transitions.]
Every country celebrates its own special holidays, days that mark crucial dates or important events in their collective history. It’s important to recognize and acknowledge these milestones as they are part of our personal history, the past that helps remind us who we are and from where we came.
I’m proud to be an American. Sure, we have our share of challenges, and we’re not universally loved. But that’s okay. We get much more right than wrong, and we keep trying. We believe deep in our core that we can make things better, and we aspire to do so; it’s part of our cultural identity.
So while I won’t be enjoying a barbeque, fireworks or 4th of July parade in person, I will be there in spirit. Because you can take the gal out of America, but you can’t take America out of the gal.
Land of the free, and the home of the brave. Let freedom ring.
Image credit: Chuck Felix portfolio 303 at freedigitalphotos.net
I wonder would would have happened if mad King George III and his ministers had caved in to the reasonable demands of the 13 colonies to be represented in Parliament? Perhaps the course of modern history might have been very different.
Now THAT is a very interesting concept. Hmmmm…
Speaking as someone who chose to be an American I whole heartedly agree.
There’s something vibrant and optimistic in the national spirit which I’ve never experienced anywhere else, where I’ve never heard the phrase ‘it’s not possible’ or ‘we don’t do things that way’. What I have heard is ‘never done it this before but let’s try’ and ‘sounds like a great idea, let’s see how far we can run with it’.
I love the openess, welcoming nature and curiosity of most Americans. No country is perfect but one that respects democracy, freedom (of speech and spirit) and continually challenges itself isn’t a bad template.
Some would argue we are unnecessarily and illogically optimistic. Perhaps so, but I guess I prefer that to the alternative.
Aaaahhhh! Ditto for Australia Day for me…’our home is girt by sea!’
Everyone has their ‘days’ when they especially miss their home/parent/passport/place of birth country. I think it helps a little to celebrate and enjoy the local holidays while still honoring the old ones – twice as many!
We were so happy to find that Singapore has a large enough American community that we have an annual 4th of july event with fireworks and food 🙂 We just attended our second!
Ooh, fireworks and favorite foods – I would have loved that! Haven’t made it to Singapore (yet), but it’s always intrigued me.