Celebrate! Enjoy the Fourth of July Today

I grew up using holidays as markers and the Fourth of July marked the beginning of the end of summer. School would be starting soon. July is my birth month and for a child, a birthday is the halfway point between the delight of Christmas and the wonder of owning your own red-letter day.

As a teen, the Fourth of July served as a high point; we went to town and partied, eating junk food and watching fireworks. During my early adult years, I scheduled vacation around the Fourth of July because I could make a long travel trip on few vacation days. Once again family and friends made the day special.

Julys passed and I noticed other views of the date. During the Centennial a sense of history and celebration infused the country. The wave of patriotism continued, particularly after 911. Our most patriotic day of the year is probably the Fourth of July. (From flag-themed ear rings on a cashier at Whole Foods to red, white and blue veggie chips at Costco, the visual representation of a Fourth celebration knows no bounds.)

Today, as an Albuquerque Independent Business Alliance board member, the Holiday is built-in perfect. Independence Week July 1 – 7 marks a time to focus on locally owned, independent businesses. The organization ties in with its national counterpart, American Independent Business Alliance, posts a billboard and touts “shop local.” Why? It's about community.

It occurs to me, the underlying importance and joy of sharing with family and friends never goes away. Take a moment to enjoy those around you as you celebrate the Fourth of July today!