Independence Day
From this year forward, I am making a point to not refer to Independence Day as merely the “Fourth of July” as that takes away the special occasion of the day. I could call it the Third of June, or Tenth of April and that implies nothing more than a simple date. The act of referring to the day as “Independence Day” is a conscious one that remembers the day for what it is, as it is much more than just a day on a calendar!
So, on this Independence Day, have fun, be safe, and in the Spirit of ‘76, celebrate tomorrow as per John Adams:
“John Adams’ famous letter of July 3, 1776, in which he wrote to his wife Abigail what his thoughts were about celebrating the Fourth of July is found on various web sites but is usually incorrectly quoted. Following is the exact text from his letter with his original spellings:
The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, 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 Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. I am 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. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not. (The Book of Abigail and John: Selected Letters of the Adams Family, 1762-1784, Harvard University Press, 1975, 142).
Writing that letter was an act of celebration.”
Amen. THAT is how Independence Day is meant to be celebrated and remembered.