July Fourth

July Fourth is the date that the USA celebrates its birthday. Most people of the world has always known this. Like so many others that were born close to July 4th, I did not understand this till I was in first grade and learned about the Revolutionary War and our freedom. It was heart breaking to suddenly discover that people didn't celebrate my birthday with fireworks and barbecues; it felt like I was no longer special. My mom wasn't ready when I confronted her that fateful afternoon I had learned the truth; but like normal, she managed to explain to me how nothing had changed because I was a planned part of the celebration every year. She told me that I should always think of the fireworks as my personal stars to wish upon.

Let me explain how a small child could possibly misconstrue the celebration of a nation for themselves. First, children are selfish by nature and interpret the things around them based on the impact to them. As a national holiday, celebrations including fireworks abound on the Fourth of July and are well reported in the media. Since families and friends tend to gather for the festivities and food is often served, a birthday cake for desert is a "no brainer". If there is no birthday person, someone usually brings a USA birthday cake to most barbecues. For the week before Independence Day, red, white and blue cakes, treats, and party supplies are everywhere. All this fills a small child with anticipation for the big day. Just think about it from a small child's perspective for a moment, this is ALL for them! Even if their real birth date is acknowledged when it happens, there is almost nothing that will compare to the activities of July Fourth.

Don't take this as a complaint in any way, shape or form. Once the shock wore off that not everyone celebrates my birthday with fireworks, parades, concerts, rodeos, carnivals, or festivals, a little piece of me still holds on to the idea that I am special. No matter where I am, I enjoy the Fourth of July more than the average American. When I watch the fireworks, I always wish upon my special star. Thanks mom!