American Exceptionalism: Pomp and Parade

As Americans, our foundings should tug at our very souls and remind us who we are, and better yet, who we should strive to be.

Fourth of July may be my favorite holiday. I know that’s a bit odd, perhaps, with all the others, and certain ones have a special place in my heart, but the Fourth is my favorite. Obviously enough to make me come out of the wood-work and blog, right?

Kaboom Town 2013
Addison, Tx

There’s just something about the fireworks, the singing, the love of country... The whole nation comes together and doesn’t worry about differences of opinion or politics or social beliefs. All we know is that we are celebrating something beautiful. And for a few moments as the sky explodes in reds and greens and white, everything is okay.

I’ve discussed and debated for many long years on the belief that America is exceptional. I suppose I feel that way because I don’t believe in coincidence and I don’t believe in chance, but I do believe that everything happens for a reason. That understanding helps to solidify how I view the beginnings of my country. Too many things have come together over our 237 years (really more if you count what led up to it) to dismiss the sacrifice and the very spirit of freedom and endurance that this nation has developed.

Men that were not fond of the idea of leading again led the country to a great victory (no matter how many retreats). Words were written that paved the way to freedoms for all, even if they could not secure them at the time of their writing. People gave their lives, often not having a chance to see what they fought for coming into reality. They did this against all odds and with no guarantee of success. They had commitment to something great.

As Americans, our foundings should tug at our very souls and remind us who we are, and better yet, who we should strive to be. Will we give into the idea that we can’t be any better than the lot that we’re dealt when we’re born, or will we strive to be great, not only for ourselves, but also for those around us? Will we allow the stories of sacrifice and patriotism to lift our spirits and encourage us to follow in their footsteps and learn what it truly means? I believe that we can and I hope that we do.

So happy Independence Day to you all. I hope you can celebrate it with pride in your heart in being part of an exceptional nation, a beautiful nation that has changed the world in so many wonderful ways. My prayer remains that we continue to change the world for the better and that we are a beacon of light in the darkness, much like the lights in the sky last night and the ones that will fly tonight. Happy Fourth and God bless.

“It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever.”
- John Adams, 1776

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