Favorite #48: Fourth of July

American Pride on the 4th of July (Ed Pilegard, photographer, used with permission)

Celebrating the Fourth of July

With Fourth of July celebrations all around, sometimes it’s easy to forget why we celebrate. During a children’s sermon, recently, Pastor Joe asked the children at Franklin Baptist Church to explain what the Fourth of July meant to them. The responses were varied with answers such as fireworks, fire trucks, parades, flying the flag, freedom! Pastor Joe added, “And don’t forget funnel cakes.” Everyone laughed.

Depending upon life experiences and previous knowledge, like the children, adults also have different perspectives of what the Fourth of July means. I was fortunate, growing up, that my parents and teachers instilled in me not only a love of country, but an appreciation for sacrifices made.

Serving in the Army in the 9^th Infantry during WWII, my dad knew firsthand what sacrifice meant, so, for him, the Fourth of July was more than a celebration once a year. Although he was glad others had fun celebrating with parades, parties and fireworks, he was content to celebrate quietly at home, proud he contributed to preserving the spirit and vision of those who had signed the Declaration of Independence.

It was from my dad I learned how precious freedom is, developing a love and a heart for all things Americana and patriotic. If you enjoy Americana, like I do, then you will enjoy Sharla Shults’s blog, Awakenings. An educator and writer, during the week of the fourth, Sharla posted a blog everyday about America’s past, present and future. She’s also written a book with the same patriotic theme and name, Awakenings, now available on Amazon.com. Check out her blog at the following link:

http://awakenings2012.blogspot.com/2013/07/1-happy-4th-of-july.html

Even though celebrating the Fourth of July means different things to different people, the common thread weaving throughout is freedom. That’s why the Pilgrims came and that’s why so many from distant shores still come today. That’s also why I chose the Fourth of July as my favorite holiday.

What does the Fourth of July mean to you? Leave a comment, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com

Thanks,

Dicy

www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog