July 4

Today is the 4th of July. It might be my favorite holiday. But not because I am overly nationalistic. I simply love that it is a time each year for us to celebrate our culture and history as Americans. I do think that our identity is important.

For as long as I can remember, my family has thrown a huge party on the 4th. We have BBQ and go watch fireworks. I look forward to it each year. Since I spend a pretty good bit of my summers in Mexico, I have missed that party more than once. And I always regret it. This year we are taking a break from the party scene, but next year things will get back to normal. I can’t wait.

Last year I read a fascinating post about the 4th of July on Richard Beck’s blog in which he quoted Walt Whitman’s views on America. I recommend its thoughts as my own. You can view it here.

I am taking a little more time than I thought away from the blog world. At this point I am spending a pretty good bit of time resting and getting ready for yet another school year (but this time as a teacher!). I’ll be back soon enough, though.

May the God of grace bless you all richly. And happy 4th of July.

~ by Matt Vaughan on July 4, 2008.