Today we celebrate Independence Day, a federal holiday commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, formally establishing our nation as independent from the Kingdom of England. As a child growing up in my hometown of Washington, DC, the 4th of July was a big part of the summer.
People from around the world poured into the Nation's Capital. The subways were jam packed, hotels were filled to capacity and traffic was a nightmare. But it was always fun, especially since our house is on 16th Street, a straight shot up from the White House at 16th & Pennsylvania Avenue.We always had a perfect view of the fireworks from my parents's patio. We celebrated with other kids in the neighborhood by catching fireflies, running around with sparklers, eating lots of hot dogs and chugging enough soda to more than make up for the sweet drinks we weren't allowed to have all year.
Today, my appreciation for the 4th of July is different, yet still heartfelt. As an “indiependent” business owner, I am grateful to live in a nation where I can enjoy my passions and work freely to generate income that I can spend, invest, donate and save as I wish.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
I can't think of many other things that are more self-evident than equality, the existence of a Creator, the right to life, the right to liberty and the right to pursue those things which make one's heart sing. That's what I get to do every day, here with you. I wish you a happy Indiependence Day!!
Thank you America!
If you live in the United State of America, what are you thankful for today? If you live elsewhere, what if anything do you feel is special about this day?
