Leigh Royals |

I grew up loving the Red, White, and Blue. I cannot separate the celebration of Independence Day from watermelon in Grandmama’s backyard. Going to fireworks displays was always fun. We’d go to different places each year. My favorite was at Lennox Square. We parked at the top of the parking deck, and the view was spectacular. I think I haven’t been to a display now since I was pregnant with my son. I live close to the beach as it is, so I can see, and especially hear, the relvelry without leaving the house. But I don’t relegate this jingoistic behavior to only one day a year. Yes. Similar to mother’s day, I think it is something to celebrate everyday. Freedom is hard to explain to those who have the same liberties as we do. As American born citizens, we have grown up in this society, enjoying what we call freedom. But what is it really? Can one be free or know freedom if they’ve not known oppression? Well, perhaps. I know how I’d feel were my rights removed. I know I may have taken for granted what a great life I’ve been able to have. And the potential for more greatness and wonderful things are there for me. But I so do not want to forget how this came to be. As much as I wish to be a true Daughter of the Revolution, my ancestors in Virginia could easily have been Tories or Loyalists instead of Patriots. I do not know. But I draw inspiration for this day in seeing freedom being won for others. I have not felt oppressed. But I sympathize with the trials of others. I see the atrocities man has wrought and my heart breaks. I mourn for lives lost in the pursuit of this freedom. And it is for them this day is made. Today is the epitome of what their sacrifice gave.