Get Your H.A.T.

July 2nd, 1776, 12 out of the 13 colonies had approved the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. It was on July 4th, when it was officially adopted. Some of the Americans began celebrating that year, while others waited till the next year. Independence Day wasn’t a widespread celebration until after the war of 1812. In 1870, Congress passed a bill finally making Independence Day a federal holiday.

Fireworks signify national pride and patriotism, and have been used for this holiday since 1776.

Now, most people celebrate the 4th by going to or participating in parades, watching fireworks, or having barbecues with friends and family.

This year I participated in the parade, we had a barbecue with friends and family, and watched fireworks from our house.

“Too many of us view liberty as something the ‘just is,’ and too few see it as something that ‘is’ only because someone, somewhere was faced with the formidable reality that to keep liberty meant paying a stiff price.” - Craig D. Lounsbrough Our freedom did not just happen, many people died for it, but we tend to forget that even on Independence Day.

“We cherish our freedom because of the tremendous cost by which it was attained.” - Billy Graham So, let’s all remember, that our freedom came with a price, which is still being paid today. We have troops around the world constantly protecting our country, which helps it to be the best country in the world.

Thank God for all the men and women who sacrificed and continue to sacrifice their lives for our freedom.