“[Independence Day] will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.”
-John Adams (The Letters of John and Abigail Adams)
“…I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States…”
John Adams’s words demonstrate the celebration our Founding Fathers felt for what they had accomplished in declaring our independence, as well as the wisdom they had in knowing how much our nation would go through to maintain our way of life. As we celebrate 246 years of independence, let’s remember where our nation has come from. No matter our role, let us all help guide her into the future – toil we must.
But this weekend, we celebrate. Whether you celebrate with parades, fireworks, bonfires or barbecues, grab a hot dog and a beer this weekend. America’s birthday is worthy of a celebration.
BJ Kraemer, President