Ever since I can remember, and I have one memory dating back to when I was just two- or three-years-old, I have considered myself to have been very independent. I have never been one to seek approval or feel the need to be surrounded by like-minded people. I spend a good portion of my time enjoying the solitude of being alone. Independence is important to me and something I value deeply. On Independence Day, I like to reflect on what independence means to me as an American.
Independence Day
This is what Independence Day, as a whole, means to me:
- Living in a country where we are free to practice religion (or not) as we prefer without prejudice.
- Enjoying the customs of our own cultures without being judged outside the confines of that culture (wearing a cowboy hat doesn’t make me a “red neck” anymore than wearing baggy pants makes me a “thug” or wearing a turban makes me a terrorist).
- Helping a fellow man in need despite any differences in religion, political beliefs, race, income brackets, sexual orientation, etc.
- Practicing patience, compassion and understanding with each of our fellow Americans without ever passing judgment.
- Taking care of our Earth, and appreciating and respecting its resources.
- Finding beauty in living life each and every day.
- Developing meaningful relationships that last a lifetime.
- Creating a legacy that our ancestors would be proud of and our descendants will admire.
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