04 Jul Thoughts on July 4: Thanks UK!

Today we celebrate our country’s then dramatic decision in 1776 to separate from the British Empire and create a new nation. There are folks in the UK that still like to refer to us as “the Colonies,” I’d like to believe in an endearing way.  The ragtag group of soldiers led by George Washington defeated the most powerful army in the world at the time. Like many things in life, I’d like to think that while we weren’t the bigger dog in that fight, our guys just wanted it so much more. Now, of course, our greatest ally is our former enemy. But I do think there’s still a little tinge across the pond when July 4 hits each year.

Freedom is kind of a big deal. Since 1776, Britain also has become a true democracy, the royals retained but with no real power. And while our Continental Congress rejected calling our first leader King George, we do retain a sort of fascination with the British royalty. Millions of us tune in for royal weddings, or watch every step of Princess Kate’s pregnancy. In truth, even without the title our US Presidency has become more and more like many traditional monarchies. But that discussion is for another day!

So it sounds weird to do today, but thanks Britain. Thanks for our victory which led to the greatest country on Earth. Thanks also for being such a great friend and partner in democracy in the last century. Thanks for bacon sandwiches and drinking beer outside a bar. And respect for your traditions and incredible history. And yes, we express tremendous pride in being American today.