America the Free

Happy 4th everyone! Though it may surprise many to know it, to the majority of the world this is just another Thursday. Here is the USA it's where people bust out the beers, BBQs, jorts, and flag-themed paraphernalia all of which allows them to proudly scream 'Merica! It's a day to take off from work, hang out with friends and family, drink and be merry, then play with low-grade explosives. In short, it's what makes America great.

Or at least that's what it seems most people think. In reality, the 4th of July is more than a day to act like the American stereotype the rest of the world despises; it's a day to celebrate and appreciate the freedoms granted to us as American citizens that many across the globe are denied. That's why it's called Independence Day.

In the midst of the family keg stand, or before lighting the giant fuse you made to set off all your fireworks at once, take a moment to really appreciate what a gift it was to  be born in this country. It's not perfect by any means, with bigotry, stupidity, hatred, and greed all around. But the great thing is we have the freedom to speak our mind on any of these issues; it's what allows for a nation-wide debate on these issues, for better or worse. No matter how things play out, each of  us has a voice in helping decide the outcome. We can be who we want, think how we want, do (within the laws of the state and the laws of physics) what we want. We are Americans.

I'm not proud of the stereotype of Americans that is circulating through other countries (I've been told if you travel abroad you're better off pretending you're Canadian, eh?) but we have the opportunity to change how we are perceived; first we must start changing how we deify being American. It's a good thing to be proud of your nationality, but don't be a dick about it. Other countries don't suck just because you think your's is awesome.

So enjoy today; national holidays are great. But remember, the rest of the world really couldn't care less if it was the 3rd, 4th, 5th of July. It's just another day to them (except maybe some British who have a family grudge against the whole 'revolution' thing). The world doesn't stop turning to bask in the awesomeness of America; they've got their own shit (good and bad) to deal with.

Happy Independence Day everyone! Now let's keep all our fingers this year, m'kay?