On May 17, 1776 John Adams wrote, "There is something very unnatural and odious in a government a thousand leagues off. A whole government of our own choice, managed by persons whom we love, revere, and can confide in, has charms in it for which men will fight.

Soon after he had reason to celebrate: "The second day of July 1776, will be the most memorable epoch 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 shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore." 

Today we are minus fireworks and a few other restrictions, but we can still do John Adams proud. Hold fast to the individual rights America stands for and be cautious to not give them so easily away to authorities "a thousand leagues off." And, oh yes. Party!