The Fourth o f July is fast approaching. For those of us in the U.S., it is the time to celebrate our freedoms and have an extra day off before the long dog days of summer settle in.
It’s pretty safe to say that despite the economic downturn, there will be community celebrations. In fact I’m willing to guess that millions of dollars will be expended on fireworks across the country between now and the 4th.
I think it’s good to continue to celebrate and come together as communities. Keeping a close tie to each other is important. The more we can identify and work together the more likely it is we can overcome the bickering and partisanship we currently see in Washington and in state houses across the U.S.
While we celebrate, please be mindful of those who are less fortunate. There will be kids going to bed that night hungry and without adequate medical treatment. There will be people who don’t have a place to live and many who don’t have friends or family to support them.
The biggest strength we have is our compassion toward one another. We need to exercise it daily.
Take time during the 4th to meet a neighbor or help someone. It’s what defines us as a nation.