When most Americans think of the Fourth of July, several things might pop into their heads: summertime, fireworks, parades, yummy grilled cuisine and happy memories of friends and family. But amid these times of political division and costly mistakes, blatant hatred and fear – and a seemingly endless list of things that need fixing within our country – can make it hard to remember just what there is to celebrate. For all those that have started to doubt the land of the free, here are ten reasons why this country is still great.
1. Our government is not a tyranny.
We do not live in a country run by one, power-hungry man. No one person determines every aspect of your life. You have the ability to move freely throughout the United States, and no one is going to execute you for speaking ill of those in charge.
2. We have the freedom to choose our religious beliefs.
Do you believe in a god? Great. You don't believe in a god? That's fine too. Do you want to praise a flying spaghetti monster? Go right ahead. Muslim, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish you name it, you got it. Watch the news for an hour or two or do some research online, and you may be shocked by the number of religiously intolerant nations.
3. We live in a first-world nation.
Electricity, cars, the internet, running water, support programs, health care, paved roads – need I go on?
4. If you wanted to start a business tomorrow, you can.
So you want to make something more of yourself? That's great, but it's on you to make it happen. No one's going to hand you fame and fortune, but no one will take it away either. Our government won't stop you from achieving your definition of success.
5. North America is beautiful.
You can't tell me you haven't looked around once, just once and not thought that the land around you was picturesque. Whether it be a sunset, a beach, a mountain or a desert, the U.S. has it all. You have the unique ability to experience nearly every climate, all within your country.
6. Thousands of people want to help.
Whether it be working to end political corruption or start a charity for the homeless, there is no shortage of willing bodies to give their time in service to others. If you doubt that statement, Google charitable organizations near your home. You might be surprised.
7. Censorship is nonexistent.
Conspiracy theorist or not, the vast majority of the world's information is at our fingertips. Books are not publicly burned for their opposing theories to the current political campaign or predominant religion. We have the ability to connect to anyone or anything at any time. Having the world at your fingertips should not be taken for granted.
8. There is a due process of law.
So you made a stupid mistake when you were 19 and in college, who doesn't? But no matter what, you will be given a fair trial and have a lawyer represent you in court. One big difference between the US and extremely oppressive countries is that no one will put you in a labor camp nor your children nor your children's children. The American judicial system has drawn some negative attention recently, but you can't say it's not better than such inhumane circumstances.
9. Freedom to be yourself.
What a blessing it is to be able to get a tattoo and wear what you want without facing criminal charges or death.
10. No one can take your protected, natural rights away.
The Founding Fathers gave you something that millions of people don't have – protection from the government and others wishing to do you harm. Once you are a citizen of the United States, you are guaranteed your natural rights as described in the Constitution. Man, woman or child – no one can deny you of your rights.
I know this list is incomplete and doesn't encompass the entirety of everyone's situation. However, whether it be mine or yours, there are a plethora of reasons to be respectful and thankful that the U.S.A. is your home. Life may be hard where you live, but I guarantee there are those that have never experienced many of the things we take for granted.
