Independence Day

We have always thought of Independence Day as the 4th of July weekend - a holiday we all look forward to each year. When our children were at home, we would barbecue, and have fireworks at night. It was something they looked forward to. As we have grown older, we have gotten out of that ritual. It's just easier to go out and have your lunch 'catered' for you.

Independence Day is celebrated in the United States to commemorate the adoption in 1776 of the Declaration of Independence. But, as a child, you just think of the 4th of July as being another holiday. Holidays are special to children, and there are not many that would associate them with having a reason to be called that, other than Christmas.

Being independent, it means our country is not governed by any foreign power. We are supposed to be free from influence, guidance, or control from others. We are a nation built by people from other countries. But, in this day and time, it seems we are run over by people 'fleeing' from other nations, coming to the United States, illegally. With the influx of hispanics, they have become the largest minority group in America. And, one in seven, as reported by USA Today, are illegally in the US. But, apparently, they are fleeing from a government that has held them to poverty level, and they see a better way in America, across the border.