The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch 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 shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.
These are the words of John Adams in a letter he wrote to his wife shortly after the continental congress voted in favor of declaring independence from England. Other than his estimated day, he was fairly spot on. The question is, Why is July 2 (Or the 4th) so important???
Glad you asked. The Revolutionary war broke out in the year 1775. The American colonists fought tirelessly against the infamous Red coats, soldiers sent from England to regain control of the colonists. On the second day of July, 1776, the colonists officially declared themselves free from English rule. Two days later the thirteen colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence. In 1870, congress made the fourth of July a federal holiday. Today we celebrate with parties and parades and fireworks. These beautiful explosive displays that we send toward the sky every year remind us of the cannon and gun fire that took place during the Revolutionary war. The battles fought to liberate us from the heavy ruling hand of England; her high taxation and her national religion were just a few of the things that irked the colonists into rebellion.
Today We are free to worship in whatever manner as we so please. We are not forced to worship in the way the government tells us to. Why? Because our ancestors chose to stand up for their rights, and ours. The government is not allowed to choose your religion. Only you can choose. So this year, whether you are throwing candy at people from a parade float, blowing exotic displays of fireworks into the night sky, or just chilling with a drink in your hand, I encourage you to remember the men (and probably women) who died fighting for your freedom to choose, and thank the Lord for the freedom to worship Him without government interference.
Today We are free to worship in whatever manner as we so please. We are not forced to worship in the way the government tells us to. Why? Because our ancestors chose to stand up for their rights, and ours. The government is not allowed to choose your religion. Only you can choose. So this year, whether you are throwing candy at people from a parade float, blowing exotic displays of fireworks into the night sky, or just chilling with a drink in your hand, I encourage you to remember the men (and probably women) who died fighting for your freedom to choose, and thank the Lord for the freedom to worship Him without government interference.
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