Independence Day

Many of you may be aware that the 4th of July is my favorite holiday. There's just something about patriotism, checkered tablecloths, picnics, parades, the national anthem, and my favorite - fireworks. I could probably watch fireworks every night and never get tired of them. I have only missed one other Independence Day in my lifetime, and that was while I was in Taiwan. The secretaries at the school I taught at bought us fireworks, which the other teachers and I lit on the roof of the school. It wasn't quite like the good ol' US of A, but it did generate enough memories to suffice me. You may be wondering what I did to celebrate in India. I woke up just like any other day, put on my blue shirt, white pants and red shoes and went to work in a country that I didn't really think cared about my country or our fight for Independence. As hard as it was to go to work on a day when I knew I should be enjoying the company of my friends and family, I was pleasantly surprised once I got to the office. Everyone on my team wished me a happy Independence Day, and the cafeteria was decorated with an American flag and red, white, and blue balloons. Their efforts were greatly appreciated. However, I still sat in a florescent-lit office for 12 hours on my favorite holiday (see picture). And so, I would hope that each of you enjoyed the day of our Independence to its fullest. I hope you watched at least one display of fireworks and appreciated the fact that you were able to participate. I also hope that you held a quiet rendition of the our national anthem in your heart, if for no other reason, than in memory of your friend Candice.