Yay for Independence!

Day, that is.

Yup, it's the 4th of July.


In 1776, John Adams wrote this in a letter to his wife, Abigail.

"The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch 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 shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more."

He was off by two days. But, we do still celebrate the holiday with "pomp and parade" as he wrote.

He also wrote, in that same letter, that he is "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."

Soldiers of every generation have fought to defend and support our country. In history, it was on our own soil. Now, today's soldiers are overseas fighting, still for our country and for the independence of others.

John Adams thought the end was worth all the means. It is. I get to go celebrate this holiday with family and friends, without worrying about things like my freedom.

Keep in mind it wasn't always this way, and please keep in mind the men and women overseas and those away from their families today. It's one more holiday and one more set of memories they don't get to have.

~Bri