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The Fourth of July—also known as Independence Day or July 4th—has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution. On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence. (History.com)
As we prepare for the holiday weekend, I hope we all take a moment to reflect on the amazing life that we have in America… Yes, current events have been tumultuous. Inflation is rampant. The news leads people of any political persuasion to believe their neighbors are enemies… The reality is that we would all help our neighbor when in need. We all have neighbors who would help us, regardless of differing opinions.
“Liberty must at all hazards be supported. We have a right to it, derived from our Maker. But if we had not, our fathers have earned and bought it for us, at the expense of their ease, their estates, their pleasure, and their blood.” — John Adams
As we celebrate with friends and family, Please take a moment to appreciate the past lives that were given fighting for and building this great country. From the military, to the enslaved and freedmen. From entrepreneurs, to factory workers, and farmers… Don’t forget the contribution and history of the Native Americans. The lives that have built this country are widely diverse, yet they have contributed to the same singular result.
Remember that our neighbors may have different beliefs, but we are all citizens of the United States, or at least children from the same creator. We don’t have to agree with one another to treat neighbors with compassion and respect. We should all expect the same for ourselves.
One of the greatest things about being an American: Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. We have the liberty to express those opinions. We don’t need to fear punishment, prison, or death. The 4th of July is a wonderful day to celebrate our freedom of speech. A time when we can appreciate our differences and the liberty to have them. It is a moment when we can gather with friends and family at the firing range. A time for others to go to the lake. The 4th is a great day to remember we are in this together with all Americans. A day we can say a prayer of thanks publicly, or choose not to without fear. We don’t have to agree with all Americans to build and grow together as a society. The more successful, self-reliant and compassionate we are as a country, the better our individual lives will be.
During a time rampant with conflict and controversy, we have so much to be grateful for. In the best of times and in challenging times, living in America is a special, wonderful, and amazing life. We have plentiful opportunities that are rare elsewhere in the world. We can work hard, spend wisely, own a home and build wealth. Education is available for all who are willing to work for it. We can build businesses and objects (like Big Dog Motorcycles.) One can improve their position in life and create the circumstances for their children to have better lives yet. We have it really really good in America even on the worst of days.
On this Independence Day weekend, please take a moment to be grateful for everything that we have. It is time for a break from our frustrations, political disagreements, and first world problems. Enjoy this beautiful moment with friends and family. Be grateful for the freedoms we have, while appreciating the millions of lives that have built America.
First and foremost, remember that loving one’s neighbor is also a form of loving America.
For anyone who is not feeling love and gratitude this weekend, I encourage you to hop on your bike, take a cruise, and enjoy living in the moment.
For those who are loving life this weekend, I encourage you to take a ride and live in the moment also!
Now, it’s time to fill up our Big Dog bikes and get ready for a wonderful 4th of July weekend, 2022!
Blog post with much love from Mike Gamache
