What is the 4th of July All About?

Did you know that 65% of fourth graders have no idea why we celebrate the 4th of July. When asked by a polling organization they gave answers like:

1. We have fireworks or go to fireworks.
2. We have picnics and friends or family visit.
3. Mom and Dad don't have to go to work.

All of these things are true, so they were accurate as far as they knew.

So if July 4th isn't about these things, what is it all about?

On the 4th of July we celebrate Independence Day, where the 56 founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.

Did you know that most of these men were men of means in that day. They had much to lose. They were highly educated and most were wealthy. They didn't have to create this document and sign it. They didn't have to pledge "our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor" as it says in the last paragraph. But they did.

Most of these 56 men died poor, lost family, lost farm estates, and even lost their lives.

They went into the revolutionary war with eyes wide open. They knew at best they would have to start over and at worst they would loose all.

They did it for Independence. They did it for freedom. They did it for future generations like you and me.

I think that is worth remembering when we are sitting with our families and friends this weekend.

Oh, and if you have a fourth grader. Make sure you remind them too. So the next time some dumb polster asks the question, they answer with the historical significance like they were supposed to.

Let freedom ring!