why we celebrate

the occaision of the fourth of july is to celebrate the birth of this nation, and the continued success of this experiment in democracy, and the definition of what that success is.

i used to be of the opinion that my country was the greatest on earth because we had the strongest army, the most people, the most money, etc. while all these certainly contribute to the prosperity of our nation, it isn't really a measure of the unique success of this country. the success of this nation, from why it came about and on the principals from which it was formed can be found in the people who make up this nation. it is our success individually and collectively that makes this country as great as it is.

you can cite the obvious example of president obama, the first african-american president who came from a broken family, barely knew his father, and rose to the highest office in the land. but what of the destitute young woman on the streets who takes advantage of an opportunity given by a local homeless shelter to get cleaned up, go to school, learn a trade, and make a comfortable life for herself? this is just as much a success, if not more, of the promise of this country.

based on the belief that all are created equal, that one has the right to speak one's mind, that one is innocent until proven guilty, that one can follow the religion of their choice...or not at all, we haven't always lived up to that ideal. this nation was born with the curse of slavery intact, treaties with native americans were regularly disregarded, japanese citizens were interred during world war II, laws unfair and unequal were created and enforced in the south. but rather than detract from our original purpose, we have been wise enough to recognize our failings and to correct the miscarriages of justice as best we can, and we continue to thrive as a nation.

we, as americans, have an inherent understanding that despite our differences, we need to come together, to compromise, and to connect to move this nation forward. in times of crisis, such as pearl harbor and 9/11, we spoke with one voice that we will not abandon our beliefs in the face of danger. that we have a right to feel what we do, and why we do, and no one has the right to take that away. while our politicians squabble about the infidelity of others, the misrepresentation of one's character, or particular political beliefs, it is our greatest achievement that one can have a difference of belief and not fear for their life. that the political opposition need not go into hiding.

that it is this very difference of opinion that makes america stronger as a nation, and the greatest in the world.

happy fourth of july, everyone.