The 4th of July is a day to remember, a day to celebrate with family, friends, backyard picnics and fireworks. That may look different for some this year because of the virus. I was supposed to attend an annual backyard pool party with our large family. It was just called off. A family member tested positive for COVID.
There won’t be any large fireworks displays this year, but there will be lots of fireworks going off in the neighborhoods. And pool parties can be rescheduled. But in the midst of all the turmoil in the world, I want to remember the true meaning of this day. I want to remember our forefathers and all of those, who scarificed so much to bring us this freedom we take so for granted.
I don’t think I realized until COVID how much I took my freedom for granted. Telling me where I could go, and when I could go, was not something I am used to. And then the riots, with nightly curfews, just emphasized how easily the feeling of freedom can slip through our hands.
I may be celebrating the 4th this year without my large extended family, but that’s okay. What I am thankful for, is that I am more aware than ever how precious my freedom is.
I’m sorry you weren’t able to celebrate as you’d planned, Cindy. I hope you enjoy the day anyway and that your family member with the positive test doesn’t experience any serious impact. My hope for us as a nation is that we come through the current challenges better and stronger as a collective.
Thank you Kris. I hear my nephew is on the mend and doing well. I will be staying inside most of the day because it is unbearably hot and humid. Heading out now at 6am to do some outside painting before the sun comes uo. And then I’m retreating inside, other than to water my poor suffering flowers.
This may be one of the first holidays that I’ve spent this much time contemplating freedom and what it means to me. Even these small losses of freedom have made me so much more thankful for the country and more aware of my part to keep it healthy and free.