Happy Fourth of July!
This year, I'm a little bitter about it falling on a Wednesday. No three day weekend? Bummer.
But hey, what can you do?
If Thomas Jefferson had his wish, we'd be celebrating our independence on July 2nd... here's an excerpt from a letter the statesman wrote to his wife:
"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." (Source, Wikipedia.)
So much for solemn acts - though Jefferson's use of the word meant "awe-inspiring"... not "somber or gloomy."
The weather in DC is gloomy today - but that won't halt us from celebrating the day with imported Chinese fireworks and flags.
Ah, well. At least they don't manufacture patriotism in far-flung factories. Not yet.
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