I just shared this thought over on LinkedIn in a comment but it belongs here too.
Back in 1775-76, everyday people were done being ruled by a king who taxed them without giving them a voice (today's Big Beautiful Bill), passed laws they didn’t agree with (so many laws and executive orders-- where do I start), and sent soldiers to enforce control (recent ICE, National Guard and Military in our cities). It wasn’t just about tea or taxes, it was about freedom, self-governance, and the right to build a future on their own terms. The Revolution was a giant middle finger to tyranny and a bold declaration that power should come from the people, not a throne. And I'm happy to report, with confidence, this big middle finger is coming again in 2026. I promise.
I will find my own way of celebrating the 4th. I will celebrate the resistance of citizens who are protesting Trump’s power grab and want a world where kindness is valued. I will celebrate the citizens who try to protect hard-working immigrants who help provide food for our tables and do jobs we just don’t want to do. If you sat down with Thomas Jefferson, try to explain to him the personality of DJT and his cult-like following. He might say, but we built in a system of checks and balances. But that depends on the branches of government doing their job and not folding to threats or promises of wealth. He might tell you about the rule of law, but you would try to explain we have a convicted felon who only cares about retribution and wealth. I think he might say that his values do not reflect the values of the people. But what if they do? Maybe we all secretly long for a golden toilet? This is the flaw of democracy: no one then envisioned that a malignant narcissist, a white supremicist, and a man utterly lacking empathy would become our leader. And we invited him in. This July 4th is a sad day for me and I will not be celebrating.
Too many people are unaware. They're OK with cake and promises. We must deliver, and I believe we will. Thank you for sharing Lori. I'm feeling the same things here in the OC.
I just shared this thought over on LinkedIn in a comment but it belongs here too.
Back in 1775-76, everyday people were done being ruled by a king who taxed them without giving them a voice (today's Big Beautiful Bill), passed laws they didn’t agree with (so many laws and executive orders-- where do I start), and sent soldiers to enforce control (recent ICE, National Guard and Military in our cities). It wasn’t just about tea or taxes, it was about freedom, self-governance, and the right to build a future on their own terms. The Revolution was a giant middle finger to tyranny and a bold declaration that power should come from the people, not a throne. And I'm happy to report, with confidence, this big middle finger is coming again in 2026. I promise.
I will find my own way of celebrating the 4th. I will celebrate the resistance of citizens who are protesting Trump’s power grab and want a world where kindness is valued. I will celebrate the citizens who try to protect hard-working immigrants who help provide food for our tables and do jobs we just don’t want to do. If you sat down with Thomas Jefferson, try to explain to him the personality of DJT and his cult-like following. He might say, but we built in a system of checks and balances. But that depends on the branches of government doing their job and not folding to threats or promises of wealth. He might tell you about the rule of law, but you would try to explain we have a convicted felon who only cares about retribution and wealth. I think he might say that his values do not reflect the values of the people. But what if they do? Maybe we all secretly long for a golden toilet? This is the flaw of democracy: no one then envisioned that a malignant narcissist, a white supremicist, and a man utterly lacking empathy would become our leader. And we invited him in. This July 4th is a sad day for me and I will not be celebrating.
You are not alone Donna. Thank you for this very thoughtful share. It looks like I'll be out protesting this afternoon.
Too many people are unaware. They're OK with cake and promises. We must deliver, and I believe we will. Thank you for sharing Lori. I'm feeling the same things here in the OC.