What is the appropriate way to celebrate July 4th? Lots of people think parades, cookouts, ball games, and fireworks. These activities do have their merits, particularly when enjoyed with family and friends. Nevertheless, except for family and friends, none of these activities have much to do with why we celebrate the occasion.
So how should we celebrate the day? Here are some recommendations.
- Have your children read the Declaration of Independence. Have them read it to you. Discuss with your children why the document matters. Make certain your children understand that with this declaration thirteen small colonies united to take on the mightiest nation of the era. What then passed for conventional wisdom held that the King of England would win the day. With their signatures, the signers of the document risked everything, their lives, the security of their families, and everything they owned.
- Participate in a political event in the morning. To retain the rights the Founders won for themselves and their posterity, we must exercise those rights. Every year Virginia has an election, and this coming November we will be electing our Governor, our Lieutenant Governor, our Attorney General, and all the members of the House of Delegates. If you vote Republican, please consider participating in the Dale City Parade (described here). The Prince William County Republican Committee is looking for walkers in the parade (details here). Note that all three statewide candidates; Bob McDonnell, Bill Bolling and Ken Cuccinelli; will be walking in the Dale City Parade.
- Participate in a political event in the afternoon. Attend the Prince William County VA Tea Party. If you believe the people leading our government do not know when to let the People run their own affairs, then this is the place for you to be. Here is a peaceful way to express your displeasure and organize with your friend and neighbors. This is a place where you can help to protect the rights for which good men and women have fought and died.
- Enjoy an evening of fireworks with family and friends. Here, here, and here are some news articles that suggest locations.
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