Think of Freedom

While searching online for an explosive fireworks photo to use in today's post (despite many attempts, I've never taken a good photo of fireworks myself), I came across a series of quotes about the 4th of July. I'd read many of the quotes before and none of them left me feeling particularly patriotic or inspired...until I came to the last one.

May we think of freedom not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right.

~ Peter Marshall

Yes.

YES.

Today, on July 4th, we commemorate the adoption of our country's Declaration of Independence in 1776. We celebrate our nation's history, government, traditions, and above all else, our national and individual freedoms.

We all have different - and occasionally changing - views on what national and individual freedom mean and look like. But these words...they ring true for me. When I talk to my kids about freedom, this is the message I will share.

Happy 4th of July, friends!

If you're planning on playing with fireworks tonight, please read the fireworks safety link below. I wrote this post for the Red Cross a few years ago, but the information still rings true. Be safe! Fireworks 411, So You Don't Need 911