Here in Jefferson City, we traditionally celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks and festivities ranging from our Salute to America festival to backyard barbecues with friends or family.
Either way, we typically celebrate with other people and with jubilation.
This year is different.
We're amid an escalating pandemic and a summer of discontent with dissension over the police, historical statues and social justice.
Summer of Love? That seems as far away as the hippies at Haight-Ashbury in 1967.
Should we even be celebrating this year?
Yes, we should.
The history of our nation is far from perfect. Our current nation isn't perfect either.
But, while we discuss needed changes, let's not forget the many things that still make this a great country.
Celebrating the Fourth of July isn't about celebrating past injustices. It isn't about celebrating a perfect country.
It's about celebrating the sacrifices that hundreds of millions of people have made to build this nation. Sacrifices ranging from time to hard work to the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country and our freedoms.
It's about celebrating a country that remembers its past - the good and the bad.
Our country hasn't always lived up to its ideals. But we still should celebrate a country that has made great strides to improve, and a country that never stops bettering itself for all its citizens.
Today, let's forget our differences and be proud to be Americans.
News Tribune