Summary

The 4th of July in 2020 is experienced differently due to the pandemic, but it also marks a time of personal growth and resilience for many, including the author.

Abstract

The 4th of July, a celebration of freedom and the United States' independence, is traditionally marked with joyous festivities, but in 2020, it is subdued due to the global pandemic. Despite the lack of typical celebrations such as parades and fireworks, the author reflects on the personal and collective growth experienced during this challenging time. The day holds a special significance for immigrants like the author, symbolizing freedom, courage, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of their dreams. Although the holiday's observance is altered, the author highlights the opportunity for introspection, adaptation, and the reevaluation of life's priorities, emphasizing the strength and resilience found within the community as they navigate a new reality.

Opinions

The author expresses gratitude for the life and freedoms enjoyed in the United States, appreciating the symbolism of the 4th of July.
For immigrants, the 4th of July has a profound meaning beyond patriotism, representing the freedom to choose their path, the courage to face new challenges, and the sacrifices made by leaving their homeland.
The pandemic has led to a cancellation of traditional celebrations, leaving the author and others with a sense of loss and longing for a return to normalcy.
Despite the challenges, the author believes that the experience has made them and others stronger, fostering personal growth and a redefinition of what is truly important in life.
The author views the situation as an opportunity for self-improvement, including learning, pursuing passions, and investing in personal projects.
A key lesson drawn from the pandemic experience is the importance of mindfulness, cherishing the present, and appreciating the small joys often taken for granted.
The author concludes with a sense of optimism and invincibility, echoing the American spirit as described in the national anthem, affirming the community's resilience and courage.

4th of July seems different…

But so are we.

I thank God for my life And for the stars and stripes May freedom forever fly, let it ring Salute the ones who died The ones that give their lives so we don’t have to sacrifice All the things we love - “Chicken Fried”, Zac Brown Band.

The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is one of the most important holidays here in the United States. It celebrates a historic event, the declaration of independence that happened in 1776.

On this day, the country is full of festivities, including parades, barbecues, concerts, and fireworks. It is a perfect opportunity to gather with family and friends. There couldn’t be a better day to celebrate freedom.

As an immigrant, I have always been amazed by this day. I love watching the fireworks and seeing parties all over the place. American flags, stars and stripes, red and blue colors decorating the entire country.

It certainly is a patriotic day. However, even for immigrants, 4th of July is a tradition. Although we are not celebrating our own country’s independence, it still has a strong meaning for us: freedom, courage, and sacrifices.

Freedom to choose where we want to follow our dreams. Courage to confront challenges and stand strong. Sacrifices as we leave our life, family, and friends behind to face a new reality.

Honestly? It is all worth it. I became a better person by living abroad and never looking back.

Unfortunately, 4th of July will not be the same in 2020. In the middle of a pandemic, we won’t celebrate with festivities. We won’t be surrounded by our loved ones. We won’t spread joy and love out there.

At least here in South Florida, our beaches and parks will be closed. Large gatherings are not allowed. Everything will be quiet and uncommon.

I was excited for this holiday. When the pandemic hit the US, in March, I was hoping the 4th of July would represent a new beginning. That COVID-19 would be somehow controlled. However, we are still uncertain about so many things. Sometimes we are scared. Anxious. Lost.

Yes, 4th of July is different, but so are we.

We all are facing this pandemic in a different way. We all had expectations for 2020. We all had plans that didn’t come true. We all feel we’re not in control of our own lives.

But guess what? We are all stronger.

Yes. When everything falls apart, we grow. We learned how to deal with a new reality. We adapted to a “new normal”.

We have been spending more time with ourselves and accepting our flaws and strengths. We became aware of our deep emotions and thoughts. We are following our passions and desires. We are investing time in projects that we were too busy to pay attention to before. We are learning more through courses or books.

We are determined, passionate, and curious. We are optimistic. We reinvent ourselves every single day. That’s why are so different.

And here’s our biggest lesson:

Be mindful. Be present in every single moment from now on. Appreciate small things we have been taking for granted. Embrace yourself.

Life is wonderful and there is so much left to experience. It doesn’t matter how tough the situation is, we will keep fighting.

We are warriors. We are invincible.

As Francis Scott Key once described the U.S., “Land of the free, home of the brave”.

Happy 4th of July!!!