Red, White and Blue

As long as I can remember, I have been so enthusiastic about celebrating our country’s independence. I have been proud of the colonists and leaders of the colonies that stood up for what they believe in and fought for it.

I always loved their ability to think for themselves, educate themselves and understand what was good and what was not. Our independence was a huge feat and it was amazing that it happened.

Now we have this day where families can come together and celebrate our freedoms. We can take a moment and thank our forefathers for what they did for us generations and 243 years later. And the generations that followed that kept our liberties intact.

Our history has had its ups and downs but some of the things happened because of the times. What society was like back then. If we were to look back at all the things our country was able to do, we would all be proud. Why don’t we focus on the good things and move forward and learn from the past, instead of being stuck in it. Why have we become a country where a tennis shoe company pulled a design with our country’s flag on it because it might offend some people. How in the world does a nation’s flag offend people who are living in it. Alright that little rant over.

I did love the tweet that was sent out from the British Army to ours in a loving, fun, joking way. And the tweets back were even funnier. Now that is a great feat in itself when two countries can joke about a revolution fought between them but then come together and fight in world wars alongside each other and be allies to this day. Now that is amazing.

Back to families coming together for these kind of holidays. Not everyone gets the day off to spend it with their families. Some are over seas, still protecting our freedoms, defending our country. Others are in the medical field or police officers, corrections officers and detention officers where there has to be someone manning the job 24/7 and so that means someone doesn’t get to see their families on that day.

I have mad respect for these guys especially since my husband has been that guy for the last 17 years. He started off in the medical field and ended up with the county and works as a DO in the jails. It’s hard work and someone has to do it.

I am going to be real about it. I get lonely sometimes on these holidays. I don’t have family in the same state as me and it’s usually just me and my two teens. They don’t want their mom hanging with them and talking to them, they would rather be with their friends or doing something on their own.

When asked where my husband is I say at work. If I mention sometimes it’s hard, I am met with “oh well at least he has a job,” or “at least your husband is alive,” and my favorite, “but he gets holiday pay.”

Well yes I know others have worse than me. I know some people would love jobs or love the extra pay. But it still is hard to be this lonely on a holiday. The money doesn’t come close to replacing time spent and memories made. This is not by all means whining or complaining. Just a statement of fact.

So while you are happily barbecuing with your family and sitting and talking and making memories, remember the guys working hard for us. Remember the people, men and women sacrificing their time, families and energy to make our country a little better and a little safer. I hope you thank them on this wonderful day we call Independence Day!