What the fourth of july means to me

 
The 4th of July is the date the United States celebrates our independence. For some, this holiday is simply about a day off work, for BBQ, family, games, and fireworks. For others it is a very emotional day, as they have lost a love one or have themselves fought in combat to preserve our freedom.
 
For me, this day is about appreciation. Appreciation to the good Lord above for allowing me to be born in the land of the free. Appreciation for those that have given their sweat, blood, and sometimes life, so that the land of the free stays free.  Appreciation for certain freedoms that have been guarded and protected for over two hundred years -- freedoms like allowing a young man to aspire to start from nothing and build a business that has positively impacted so many lives. I appreciate the freedom that allows us to tell our kids they can be anything they set their minds to, and have that statement be true.
 
For me, the 4th of July also means showing respect. Respect for the hard work put in by our forefathers, for their vision and fortitude to create the greatest country on earth. Respect for Ole Glory, the stars and stripes, the symbol of our country that represents those original 13 colonies and the 50 united states of America. Respect for our national anthem, a song that stands for what we believe in and the battles it took to get where we are today.
 

Joe Uptain at the July 3rd Company BBQ.

For me, the 4th of July means dedication. It means millions of Americans dedicated to the cause of preserving the American dream and the American way of life.  Dedication to standing up for what we believe in and continually challenging our peers to go higher, farther, bigger, and smarter.
 
And finally, for me the 4th of July means freedom. The freedom to write this article and share it with the public. The freedom to worship as I choose. The freedom to raise my children as I see fit. The freedom to travel across our land and experience all the beautiful bodies of water, mountains, and fields it has to offer. The list of freedoms that we take for granted is a mile long. On the 4th of July, as Americans, we have the freedom to celebrate how we like, or not celebrate at all. Much bloodshed and many lives have been spent to allow us to do so, and for that we should all be much appreciative.
 
On the 4th of July I will be celebrating my appreciation to be an American!

       ---Joe Uptain