Don't Forget The True Meaning of 4th of July

[Marlene Khaleel-Porges]

We are all aware that The Fourth of July holiday was originally intended to commemorate America's declaration of separation from Great Britain on July 4, 1776.

Now 236 years later, the meaning is very different -- AND much more significant. Independence Day is a time when Americans celebrate the freedoms that they enjoy in this country.

Of course, the tradition is for people to celebrate the holiday with gatherings of family and friends, barbecues, parties, games, lots of food, parades, baseball games -- AND the obligatory fireworks.

Those things are fine --- BUT some take the freedom and liberty we are granted for granted. It is important to NEVER forget the true meaning of the 4th of July!

Benjamin Franklin once said: "Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one." How very correct was that statement!

The greatest lesson that we can learn from the past, is that freedom is at the core of every successful nation.

Freedom is never given -- it is earned! Liberty is the right to choose, and freedom is the result of the right choice. It is easy to take liberty for granted when someone has never had it taken from them. Think about that!

On this Independence holiday, Americans honor the efforts of all those men and women who tirelessly fight for our freedoms, all those who make sacrifices to keep our liberties secure and all those who support the ideals on which this country was built.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe, happy and joyous 4th of July holiday! :)

Ragged Old Flag - Johnny Cash