On the Road

What’s the best thing about July? For many Americans, it’s the Fourth of July, the federal holiday celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It’s a time to spend with family (that includes pets, too) and friends enjoying picnics, backyard barbecues, parades and more. Check out  these ideas for games to play that need no materials! Of course, there are fireworks – much to the chagrin of some military veterans, dogs, and other animals!

Like many holidays, the significance of July 4th sometimes gets lost. So a quick refresher. Back in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was the 13 colonies’ notice to King George III and the world that they were severing ties with Britain and creating a new independent country – which was a very big deal! The Declaration of Independence also provided the inspiration and vision of a better life with the famous words in the Preamble:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. 

America continues its journey to be a nation where the words of the Preamble ring true for all Americans. Progress is often slow or completely absent. Sometimes it seems there are more steps backwards than forward. Certainly, this characterizes the past and current journey to provide all Americans their unalienable right of quality, affordable health care. But the journey must and will continue!

Happy Reading!

Suzanne Daniels