Why the 4th of July matters

It’s not the fireworks, the pomp and circumstance of the parade; the yells at the rodeo or the band on the grand stand stage.

It’s about an expression of faith in a country that has had its share of black eyes, humbling moments, and absolute greatness.

It is a day of remembrance  – for the soldiers, the cowboys, and the pioneers  – who have given life and limb, staked their last dollar and walked a thousand miles in someone else’s shoes, to make our lives a wondrous adventure.

The 4th of July is our nation’s birthday. An annual milestone marked by a country founded on hope and faith.  We celebrate the day in pride of our nation’s accomplishments and in acknowledgement of its faults.

Because of all these things, we celebrate . . . because it matters.

– Codi Vallery-Mills