Today many will celebrate Independence Day with picnics, the flying of the American flag, parades, concerts, special ceremonies, and of course, fireworks.  Older Americans will probably reminisce about the wars that have taken place, those who gave their lives so we could enjoy freedom and how our country has changed over the years.  Younger generations may enjoy celebrating, but not really have a grasp on how much has been sacrificed in order for them to live the life they live.

Consider these facts:

• In July 1776, the estimated number of people living in the newly independent nation was 2.5 million.  Today our nation’s estimated population is 309.6 million.
• U.S. manufacturers’ of fireworks and pyrotechnics will ship approximately $331.4 million worth of product for Independence Day celebrations, both large and small.
• The annual dollar value of shipments of fabricated flags, banners and similar emblems by the nation’s manufacturers is $301.5 million.

John Adams, the second President of the United States, was one of the members of the Second Continental Congress who signed the Declaration of Independence. He wrote to his wife, "I believe that it (Independence Day) will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival... it ought to be celebrated by pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other..."

     July 4th provides a great opportunity to educate younger generations not only about the history of our country, but about the history of their family and the role family members have played in making our country a great nation.  Do your children know who in your family has served in the military?  Do you have family members who lived through the Great Depression who can talk about what it was like back in the day?  Are there traditions that your family does over the July 4th holiday?  Do your children know why you do the things you do?

    Consider taking advantage of this day to talk with your children about what makes our country great, why we celebrate Independence Day, and the history of your family including ways they have served our country.

    Here are some ideas to help you get started:

• Perhaps someone in your family served in our military and can share with the younger generations what that meant to them or maybe you have an ancestor who played a prominent role in the history of our nation.  You could record the person telling their story so you can share it with future generations.  One young person found out she was related to Robert E. Lee, which sparked a whole new interest in learning about her family lineage.
• Most people know the first verse of our national anthem, but do you know what the second verse says? 
• Are there certain foods you always cook for July 4th or other holidays?  In many instances family recipes have great stories accompanying them.  Have you shared any of those stories with your children?

     Because most of us have never known anything else, it can be easy to take our freedom for granted.  Don’t let the day slip by without ever acknowledging the real reason for all the celebration.