July 4^th Means More than Just a BBQ

by: Bill Liblick

The summer season in Sullivan County has officially begun. Secondary homeowners, campers, bungalow colonies, snowbirds, and tourists are once again vacationing here.

Bethel Woods second season is underway. Sullivan County hot spots such as the Racino, Kutshers, Holiday Mountain, Forestburg Playhouse, and Villa Roma are attracting many visitors.

Street fairs, yard sales, golfing, carnivals, the Grahamsville Fair, the annual Francis Curry celebration, and of course places like Lake Superior will certainly play an important role in our summer.

On Wednesday many of us will BBQ and hold gatherings with friends and families because after all it is July 4. We often forget the meaning of Independence Day, and how it affects us.

As the holiday approaches, we must consider what it would be like without the freedom we have. We must be thankful for the true Independence our country grants us.

There is no place in the world where we have the ability to express ourselves as we do in America. I am grateful that our constitution allows me to speak my mind both in print and on radio.  It provides the opportunity for dialogue, interesting conversation, and perhaps the foundation for positive change in Sullivan County. My column often creates fireworks, but today the only spark I will ignite is one of celebration.

America is a true melting pot of diverse people. Although some of us might not understand differences, we must learn to tolerate and respect all law-abiding individuals.

No matter ones race, creed, color, gender, age, education, wealth, sexual orientation, or religious ideology, we all strive for the same goals and quality of life. Even though some of our customs, political beliefs, and the way we approach life may vary, we are all the same. We are truly the land of the free and the brave.

Every summer Sullivan County is inundated with diverse groups. Some of our summer residents dress differently and live life atypical from what we consider to be the norm. Understanding and acceptance can go a long way. Tempers need not boil over.

While on that supermarket line, pumping gas, or waiting to be seated at a restaurant, talk to the person next to you. Start the dialogue. Give them a positive impression of Sullivan County’s year round community. It will go a long way for all of us.

As we all celebrate this holiday week, consider that in many countries people are still repressed. Look at the Middle East, China, North Korea, and so on.  We are truly a nation of freedom and independence.

As you eat that hot dog, be grateful that you live in the United States of America, Happy 4th of July.

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