Birthdays are big deals, at least in my book! My brother’s birthday happened over the weekend. I asked him if he did anything special, and he told me he won the senior division of a golf tournament. It’s not how I would choose to celebrate my special day, but I was happy for him.
This weekend we will observe the birthday of our country. When those brave men signed the Declaration of Independence 244 years ago, little did they know how their vision would shape the land we live in today! America has been known as the great experiment, the land of opportunity, and the free world. People came here from all over Europe to start a new life. Those first settlers weren’t trying to create a new country. As the new communities grew, however, they began to see themselves apart from their countries of origin. Independence emerged as a concept that grew roots and became a reality. Now that’s worthy of some fireworks!
Older generations fought wars to preserve our independence when it was threatened in the early 20th century. Younger generations were touched by the events of 9/11 in 2001 when terrorists attacked civilians on our very soil and took so many lives in the collapse of the World Trade Center buildings and the Pentagon. Every American citizen has something to be thankful for on Independence Day.
This week try to find ways to put a little sparkle into each day to bring more meaning to the holiday for you and those you care for. Purchase a bright patriotic bouquet of flowers for the table, or hang streamers from your mailbox or front porch. Perhaps you can watch fireworks in person or on TV. Make a layered dessert with sliced strawberries, blueberries, angel food cake, and whipped cream. If you assemble it in a clear bowl, it looks stunning, and it’s healthy as well!
Ask how the holiday was celebrated long ago and compare how things have changed in modern times. You might gain new insights as you hear stories you can share later with other family members.
Chris and I hope you’ll join us this week here at Heart of the Caregiver and share your heart about celebrating the birth of our nation.
Heart of the Caregiver 