Posted by
John Crutchfield on Thursday, July 10, 2008 8:02:06 AM
After seeing fifty eight July Fourth celebrations, I've become a little less excited about them. It's not that I've lost any patriotic feelings along the way. It's just that fireworks, parades and things like that have become somewhat repetitive and commonplace over the years. The newness and originality of the Independence Day celebration had worn off a bit and lost a little of its former luster. OK, I was bored with it all.
This year was different. No, there were no fireworks or parades, floats, marching bands or military formations. We didn't make a pilgrimage to any historical locations or watch any documentaries on the birth of our nation. One of my daughters got married this July 4th and for me, it was just what the doctor ordered.
My beautiful child chose this day because of the deep sense of pride and devotion she has for her country. All the centerpieces were a red white and blue theme as were the flowers in her bouquet and the decorative piece at the top of the wedding cake. It was heartwarming to see this shameless display of patriotism. In an age of so much criticism and hatred for America, she made me as proud as could be. Her conservatism and love of country gives me hope that our grandchildren and future generations will enjoy the right to life, liberty and the persuit of happiness.
I've always told my children they are the greates contribution I could ever make to this world. They'll be here after I'm gone and it gives me great comfort to know that the spirit of freedom lives on in them.
As a bonus, the groom's birthday is the fourth of July, so that added even more meaning to the celebration. He's an immigrant from Guatemala with lofty goals. He wants to become a US citizen one day and eventually, a cop. With so many of our fellow countrymen seeing only the gloomy side of life in these United States, this young man and millions like him see boundless opportunities unlike anything available to them in their own countries. Their hungry and ambitious nature stands in stark contrast to that of a great many American youths who can do little more than gripe about how unfair life here is. (A trip to Sudan might be an eye-opener.)
It's interesting that this young couple chose Independence Day to begin a lifetime of dependence - dependence on each other. Together in unity with the Holy Spirit, God's grace was shed on them. They'll need it too. Though life is easier when two share the burden, it's not always so easy to maintain the cohesive bond of a relationship and work together for common goals. Still, they can do all things through Christ who strengthens them. He is the foundation of their relationship - the solid rock on which they can stand. I pray He will always be the centerpiece of their marriage, that they will be safe in His rest and know Christ as the one on whom they can truly depend.
Thank you God, for the best Fourth of July of my life.