Happy Birthday to America and to You!

Happy Birthday to America and to You!
By Heather Hommerson
NAPS Michiana Area Vice President

The United States is celebrating its 250th birthday this year, marking the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776) with nationwide events, programs and initiatives throughout the year focusing on history, ideals and the future. This is a momentus occasion for our country! We can reflect on our nation’s history and celebrate our semiquincentennial separation from Great Britain.

As a country, we celebrate a birthday every July 4th — Independence Day. We humans also celebrate a birthday each year. Our birthdays remind us that time is precious and never should be wasted; what we do with that time creates our family history and traditions.

Birthdays celebrate our existence, boost our self-worth and strengthen social bonds while looking forward to new goals in the coming year. Birthdays mark the gift of life, offer fresh starts and build identity — especially for children — by showing them they are loved and valued. It is important that, no matter how many years are being celebrated, we acknowledge that person and their special day.

We just celebrated the holiday season with friends and family. Having spent time together and exchanging stories of the previous year, we can reflect on our successes and sacrifices — creating our own family history. Gathering together helps make memories that create happiness in remembrance of our loved ones, whether living or deceased.

We build connections, feel like we belong and interact with each other, making life richer, more meaningful and more manageable. We mark milestones and strengthen bonds when we gather; foundational memories are created, history is preserved.

Celebrate our country’s birthday with loved ones and foster the community it has created. Share in rituals such as feasts and gifts and always offer well-wishes.

Celebrate your birthday with your family and friends because you are loved!