Every year I am disheartened to see the anniversary of our country’s birth relegated to just another day of the month by so many people who call it the “4th of July” instead of “Independence Day.” I see it on adverts and in the local papers.

No one calls Christmas “December 25th” because those that celebrate it as a religious holiday know that the cause for celebration is in the name. No one calls Thanksgiving "Third Thursday in November" or November [whatever the date is] because it makes no sense and doesn't describe the occasion.

By calling Independence Day, “Independence Day” we can reinforce to each other and to our children that it’s not just a day to have barbecue, see a parade, and watch fireworks. It becomes a day to remember where we came from and what our forefathers did for us. It gives us incentive to talk to our kids about what those fireworks represent and how we are a part of the process.

Independence Day is about America and should be treated better.