Why We Celebrate Independence Day

​

​

Today, we celebrate Independence Day in the 249th year since the American Colonists declared their decision to break away from the rule of King George III of England.

​

It would be easy, in light of all the trouble facing us this year, to ask why we should celebrate. The best explanation is this: because nations always face troubles, yet they almost always endure. Let us consider a few examples as provided by our neighbor across the pond, the United Kingdom.

​

Just a few years ago, people said the United Kingdom had signed its death warrant when it decided to leave the European Union in favor of regaining its independence, yet the Union Jack continues to wave proudly.

​

In the early 1970s, the United Kingdom was rebelling at home by staging labor strikes. Rail travel was slowed to a crawl as train drivers struck for “the lack of a chocolate bar and a hat that fits,” as an English friend of mine wrote. Coal miners struck, creating a need for four-hour power rotations in the dead of winter, when heat wasn’t just appreciated; it was essential to survival. And, yet the Union Jack continues to wave in all its glory.

​

Even though the United Kingdom was independent in World War II, other nations rose to her aid when she was in greatest need. As Germany pummeled her cities from the air, the Allied nations moved in with food, armaments, and troops to help in her fight to survive. Survive, she did, and the Union Jack continues to fly.

​

We Colonists, too, will fight our battles to survive another day. And, so, let us stand tall and proud as our own banner yet waves.

​

​