On the Fourth of July

Since July 4th, this year, falls on Monday, it is definitely a three-day holiday weekend here in the United States. That means that many residents or American travelers/vacationers are on the road again. Yes, they're on their way to their summer destinations, either to join in the celebration with their families and/or friends in other cities or states, or to spend their summer getaways somewhere. To others, they may have already made hotel reservations, in advance, especially to those areas near the beach or oceanfront. I won't doubt at all if the rows of hotels and resorts at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront or at Nags Head in North Carolina are already fully booked up. Apparently, people love the waters so much especially now that it's summertime! Believe me, you'll be amazed to see the city parks and beaches filled with beachgoers, visitors, guests from other states, and even from other countries, again.

The entire nation celebrates with pride and patriotism the 235th U.S. Independence Day. As expected, the Stars and Stripes, or The Old Glory, with its distinct colors of red, white, and blue, is proudly displayed everywhere. Outdoor festivals and festivities, programs, parades, and/or concerts are held to celebrate the greatness and independence of America, the Land of the Free, and to commemorate the bravery and the patriotism of the men and women in uniform who sacrificed their lives fighting for and preserving our freedom and liberty we now cherish and enjoy.

Lately, while perusing a volume of Funk & Wagnalls New Encyclopedia, I came across these information: Independence Day, in the U.S., is an annual celebration commemmorating the formal adoption by the Continental Congress of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, in Philadelphia. Although the signing of the Declaration was not completed until August (the first draft was written by Thomas Jefferson, who later became the third president of the United States of America), the Fourth of July holiday has been accepted as the official anniversary of the U.S. Independence (from Britain) and is celebrated in all states and territories of the United States, including Guam and Puerto Rico.

Furthermore, the holiday was first observed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 8, 1776, at which time the Declaration of Independence was read aloud, city bells rang, and band played. It was not declared a holiday, however, until 1941. The Fourth is traditionally celebrated publicly with parades and pageants, patriotic speeches, and organized firing of guns and cannons, and displays o f fireworks. Early in the 20th century, public concern for a "safe and sane" holiday resulted in restrictions on the general use of fireworks. family picnics and outings are a feature of private Fourth of July celebrations.

Therefore, as we celebrate America's Independence Day, let's pause for a few moment and pray for, and give thanks to our valiant veterans, dead or alive, for our freedom  and liberty we now enjoy. Amidst the funfare, and holiday festivities, let's observe safety and vigilance, folks. Happy Fourth, everyone!