The Fourth of July is cause for celebration. We light fireworks and host bonfires and cookouts rejoicing in the idea that we are so blessed. We smile, our eyes lighting up behind colorful flashes in the sky, our clothes and surroundings adorned in red, white, and blue. Today is a day that many of us have been waiting for, the chance to take cute Instagram pictures and spend time with friends and family members. But what is the cost of that freedom?

The cost is sacrifice. By the man who gave it all to ensure we lived today, God. The cost is the sacrifice of millions of men and women who gave their lives for the greater good of our rights and all that that entails. The sacrifices are the families waiting idly by for their loved ones to return or to our ancestors before us, pushing the agenda of freedom of all people of all walks of life. The cost is countless sleepless nights by returned soldiers plagued by the images that great them behind closed eyelids. The cost is a sacrifice many of us will be blessed enough to never have to know, but this doesn't mean it should go without our acknowledgment.

We live in a nation where we can go outside without fear of violence strong enough to shake nations of people. In this nation, we are free to say and do and be what we want without fear of repercussion, and while we may still have quite a ways to go before we can be fully united, this is a platform most of our world is not lucky enough to have. Do not look upon your freedom as a something you are entitled to because you were blessed with this life.

With this freedom, you can make a difference in the lives of others less fortunate. People without a voice and with a fear of life itself. It is our duty as American citizens to come together in place of falling a part. To lend a helping hand to those in need. Our nation shouldn't be seen by others as the enemy, but as a society others should strive for. When the Declaration of Independence was being created, it was in the hopes that we as people of this nation would use our freedom, that is greater than most, to fuel each other in keeping us united. It should never be forgotten that America was a land, sought out in hopes of seeking a place free of injustices and as a safe haven for those of different beliefs and walks of life.

Today is a day of celebration and a reminder of why exactly we should be proud. If you do not feel blessed to live in a society where you need not filter your words, consider this: what is it that you have done to ensure the right of freedom?