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Editorial

Independence Day is something we pride ourselves on as Americans—not only celebrating our independence as a nation but as individuals in this country.

In the midst of all of these celebrations, it can be said that Shelby County as a whole truly shows out for the holiday. While covering the many events that took place during Fourth of July celebrations, we were able to see our friends and neighbors joining together gleefully in the patriotic festivities.

Fireworks, food trucks and parades made for days packed with family fun. The amount of effort put in by the cities in our county were clearly on display and recognized by us and everyone involved.

Independence Day is a moment where we are all able to set aside political differences and celebrate what unites us as a country.

It can often feel like people today are too divided to form a united front, with things like ideological differences, belief structures and stereotypes taking over at times. It can often be easy to allow those differences to get in the way of seeing how great it is to live in this country.

Of course, horrible things do happen. Crime rates rise and election years can be stressful. However, we have to remind ourselves that in those times of hardship, no matter how big or small, we have to remain respectful of one another.

On days like Independence Day, we are reminded that those collective differences cannot outweigh what we all have in common. We are reminded that, at the end of the day, all of us wish to love this country.

That’s why Independence Day is beautiful. Despite everything tearing us apart from each other, we are able to celebrate together as one united force.

That’s why each celebration across Shelby County was amazing. Everyone came together in the celebration of freedom, honoring the sacrifices made and cherishing the progress we have all made together.

It is that message, more so than any firework display or barbecue that should be remembered by all.

What we have in our country is beautiful, and it shouldn’t be forgotten.