The new meaning for our country's independence day

As my family prepares for the fourth of July this year, it has a different meaning for not only ourselves, but millions of other people around the country as well. Year after year, we anticipate the day crowds gather to celebrate with one another, preparing large feasts for the masses, purchasing fireworks for a spectacular that will rival thy neighbors. It’s a day of remembrance for the moment we gained our independence, our freedom and it’s celebrated in the most spectacular ways each year. From small barbecues to grand displays organized by the towns that have still decided this year, to go ahead with the 4th of July events, we will all be celebrating something more this year than just our freedom as a country. This year we’re thankful for having come together through the pandemic, and survived what life had thrust in our paths. From the uncertainty, to the family and friends we lost to COVID, to the promise and delivery of a vaccine that would be our safeguard against it. It’s been a tumultuous year and what better day to observe remembrance and victories than today. So that’s where I will be, sitting around a table with my family after having grilled out back, swapping stories and giving way to the fits of laughter echoing over the table, most likely stemming from complete nonsense uttered from one of us women.

So as you’re firing up your grill, preparing for the family to arrive, or you’re on the road making your way to your vacation home to spend the 4th this year, take a moment to lose yourself in the day’s events and those around you. Appreciate the family you have, what life has blessed you with through these difficult times, and continue to carry the hope that next year may only bring better things to come, and from here, we can only rise from the ashes.

So to you all, I wish you a very happy, and fulfilling 4th of July and may your day be filled with the beginning of a bit of joy that will continue through the remaining months.