Remember these three things about the Fourth of July.
This time next week there will be fireworks in the sky and barbecues in backyards. It’s the Fourth of July! But before the holiday arrives, remember that this holiday is more than just parades and parties. Make this year’s Independence Day more meaningful by reflecting on its origins and its importance.
Host of KSL Radio’s “Inside Sources,” Boyd Matheson, shares three things we forget about The Fourth.
What to Remember About the Fourth of July
“What we forget, our children may never know. And what we do not know, our grandchildren will not possess.” – Boyd Matheson
Community and Culture Lead
Boyd says the Fourth of July is a time to reflect on the Declaration of Independence as an important, galvanizing document, but not a leading one. Community and culture lead, politicians follow. For example, the Revolutionary War had been happening for almost 18-months before the politicians got around to putting it on paper.
Boyd reminds us that most of the great moments in our nation’s history were not led by politicians. He says it’s what we do in our homes and in our neighborhoods that matters most.
True Happiness is Found in Service
Americans love to quote “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” from the Declaration of Independence – especially the Happiness part. Boyd says it’s commonly used as a justification for narcissistic endeavors.
However, Thomas Jefferson deliberately placed that phrase in the Declaration, and the definition of happiness he intended is not what we think. Happiness, according to Jefferson, can only be obtained through virtue, discipline, and service. That is not exactly what Hollywood or national media is preaching.
Boyd hopes that this Fourth of July you’ll remember that the best way to be happy is to help your neighbor.
Everyone is Created Equal
Boyd says that The Declaration is mostly a list of grievances against the king and the crown. But amazingly, tucked into that list is the phrase, “All men are created equal.” America has been on journey to align our behavior to that principle ever since. And that work continues.
That’s the challenge to all of us. It’s not enough to just tolerate each other, Boyd says. Instead, we need to love each other. We need to connect with each other.
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