Last year, I posted the following - one of my favorite quotes from the American Revolution - on the 4th. This year, I figure I’ll post it on the 2nd, in celebration of the day our Declaration was actually signed:

The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America.

I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. 

You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. — I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. — Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not. — John Adams, writing to Abigail Adams on July 3, 1776

I know I’m all hormonal and stuff, but that makes me get teary-eyed.

I’m stoked for Independence Day. There shall indeed be Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations in my corner of the continent, anyway! There will also be a reading-aloud of the Declaration, which I encourage you to read through at least once between now and the 4th, and to share with your family and friends. 

On a related note: If you guys haven’t yet watched John Adams, get with it. It’s excellent. 

Last Modified: Wednesday, July 2nd, 2008 @ 12:05

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