What does independence mean to you? It is freedom of speech? Is it choosing your profession? Is it freedom of religion? Is it going on vacation when you want? In celebration of Independence Day in the United States, I would like you to think about what independence means to you.
While the traditional 4th of July holiday is to celebrate the anniversary of the United States’ independence from Great Britain, it is important to remember the importance of the Declaration of Independence, and what it has meant to people throughout history, and what it still means today.
The Declaration of Independence is truly an amazing document especially when you consider the “primitive” state of the nation when it was written, primarily by Thomas Jefferson, and signed on July 2, 1776 to become the backbone of our American system of government. Because the document is such a deep part of our American heritage, American history and the American spirit, it is an integral part of any study of history in the schools in this country.
Today, Independence Day is a holiday celebrated on the 4th of July with parades, picnics, BBQs, games and fireworks. It symbolizes the freedoms that people of our nation are privileged to have: the freedom to speak, the freedom to vote, the freedom of religion, the freedom to live anywhere they choose, and the freedom to choose their occupations, just to name a few. Although independence means different things to different people, it is important to express gratitude for the freedoms you have, and the the opportunities you have to share those freedoms with your grandchildren.
It would do us all well to take some time once a year and take a copy of the Declaration of Independence and read it together with our families. What a wonderful 4th of July tradition that would make. Then as you watch the fireworks celebrating the birth of the country and its independence, you will have those words fresh in your heart to remind you of your freedoms and independence you are privileged to have.
To read the Declaration of Independence online, please go to http://www.ushistory.org/declaration/document/
Have a Grand 4th of July!
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