There's a lot going on in the world right now that makes me feel discouraged and disappointed in my government, if not my country. The war against a woman's right to control her body. The fact that our president acts outside international laws he suggests other countries should comply with. That people like Bradley Manning are punished for exposing war crimes while the war criminals have immunity. Fracking. Climate change. Monsanto. The list goes on. And on.
So here's a list of five reasons to celebrate this Fourth of July, in spite of the above:
1. Celebrate one thing in this country where we're making progress. Example: the SCOTUS decision on marriage equality.
It's about time and hopefully the next step is prohibiting employment discrimination based on sexual orientation, something that is still, shockingly, legal in a majority of states.2. Differentiate between love of country and love of government.
Americans are often criticized for apathy, but I don't believe people don't care. If they're anything like me, they care - they just don't know where to start.
3. Be hopeful.
There are rumblings of democratic protest happening - with Occupy and the citizens filibuster in Texas recently and with the movement for marriage equality.
4. Have gratitude.
America is part of the privileged 1%, globally. There are still protections for the most vulnerable among us - safety nets that don't exist in other parts of the world.
5. Make it about food and friends.
It doesn't have to be political to enjoy some burgers and good conversation with your favorite people. And it's an excuse for sparklers, which is pretty awesome.
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