Happy 4th of July

Holidays were always a special time for our family when I was growing up and I still feel that way today. I have a chapter in my book, 5 Words and Then Some, on Holidays. If you have the book at home on your bedside table, its on pages 30-34.

Here is what I said about holidays in general:

"I think many of us have forgotten why we are celebrating holidays and what their true meaning is. I know we all live busy lives and we can all use the extra day off, but I think we have to pause--at least for a few minutes--during each holiday, and focus on why and what we are celebrating. And we can do this privately, or if you have several people over for a party, you can say a few words. Here are some of my thoughts for a few holidays. Depending on your heritage, your religion, and your background, you may have others."

Here are my thoughts on July 4th from the book:

"When I was growing up, every Fourth of July, Dad would take out the shotgun, load it with buckshot, go out on the back steps, point the gun in the direction of the woods, towards the police station, and fire off a round to celebrate the Fourth. This was always one of his favorite holidays, and I think of him now every Fourth of July, and I think about what an incredible group of men our founding fathers were. The Declaration of Independence will be around and discussed for hundreds of years."

Two of the signers of the Declaration, Tom Jefferson and John Adams, both died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the signing. Jefferson died in the morning and Adams in the afternoon. Not knowing that Jefferson died that morning, Adam's last words were something to the effect--"thank God Tom Jefferson still lives."

Well their spirit still lives and Declaration still lives and July 4 still lives. Have a wonderful holiday everyone.