Manic Monday - The Ungrateful American

Happy Manic Monday, and Happy Fourth of July to the Americans. Today's a day that's been watered down like every other American holiday. The true meaning—the beauty of winning our independence and being blessed to live in such a great country—is symbolized by fireworks, bbqs, and beer. Lots of beer. Why is it that Americans party on every holiday? And why is it that every holiday teems with excess? I know it's not just the US, but we seem to have the market cornered on greed and materialism.

Take Christmas for instance. A holiday that for the religious symbolized the birth of Christ and for everyone the good will of men, is something many of us dread because of the amount of MONEY that's spent on it. Our kids are spoiled, and we perpetuate the idea that to show love you must give gifts—and more gifts than the previous year. We get together with family members out of duty in many cases. Is that what it's really about?

Today will be more frivolous. And make no mistake, thousands of towns and cities will have heartfelt celebrations honoring those before us who sacrificed so much to give our generation the wonderful gift of freedom.

But how many of us will stop to think about that gift today while we're running around, cooking, drinking, swimming, socializing, etc.? How many of us will see the day as more of a hectic family or social event other than the celebration it should be?

Don't be an ungrateful American. Take a minute from all the hubbub to smell the summer air, listen to the birds, and be grateful you have the amazing opportunity to celebrate Independence Day however you want to.