We are celebrating Independence Day in the United States today. 

Ever since I was a child, I remember this day being about picnics, campfires, and fireworks.  There was always a parade somewhere nearby, and Mum would take us to sit on the edge of a street, usually with some of our cousins, and await the fire trucks and marching bands, and the clowns (apologies to all of you reading who fear clowns :-)). 

How often do I stop to remember what we, as a country, are celebrating?

Yesterday, at the end of the church service I attended with Hubby and my oldest niece, we sang the song “America the Beautiful.” 

Today, I am giving myself a history lesson as I recall the very solemn reason why this is a day of celebration. 

We were a country at war. 

Over 200 years ago, our politicians took a step to declare we would stand as, then, 13 independent states.  The writing and signing of the Declaration of Independence was written, and voted upon by Congress.  It formally created our country as the United States of America.

Independence.

I watched my nieces and nephew yesterday at our family picnic.  They are fairly close in age and very different.  They all seek attention in their own way, wanting so badly to be recognized as independent from the others.  They want to show that they have grown, learned new skills, and can run faster and jump higher.  They each have their own talents and interests.  They are a family unit, yet their individuality makes them unique. 

They are also learning, as I did, that being independent comes with the price of added responsibilities. 

Sure, I, like any kid growing up, wanted to be free from the control of my parents.  I wanted to do what I wanted to do when I wanted to do it.  I tested the boundaries.  My parents were protective.  They provided safety and security as I sought my independence. 

They provided opportunities for independence and making choices.  The more choices given, the more responsibilities connected to the choices.  As I look back, it was a fair and diplomatic way to teach me how to become an adult. 

Sneaky parents.

Smart parents.

People in other parts of the world are living through various changes striving for independence.  Many of my friends are potentially affected by those decisions.  As I think more deeply about it, we are one large global community.  We are all affected somehow.

I realize this morning, that despite the fact that I am a strong individual with my own mind, my own interests, and my own passions, I am not truly independent.

I am part of a family… actually, more than one family.

I am part of multiple communities.  I belong to the rural community where I live.  All of my interests are small communities in their own way, whether it is fly fishing, cycling, or health and fitness.  I am an American.

I am part of the human race.

I am connected.

Despite my independence, I realize decisions I make, even in my small world, potentially affect others.   As I write, I recognize that my words can impact a reader in various ways.  I am cautious about subjects like religion, politics, and culture. 

Why?

Despite my independence, I respect the differences of others in my global community.  The differences in my friends and family members add color and dimension to my world.  Each person is a thread for me.  Each person provides a thread of an incredible tapestry.  That tapestry is my life.  It is beautiful and unique. 

Yes, I am fiercely independent, and have my own beliefs.   I am also aware.  I am aware of my brother or sister elsewhere who may not share that belief.  I respect their right to disagree.

I ask that they respect mine.

I am happy they do.

Today I celebrate with my country as a nation.

God bless America.