Have you ever watched a baby learning to walk? He will cling to you at first but very soon he will want to go it alone. He will fall a few times, of course, but he’ll soon get up and try again. That’s part of being independent; it’s part of growing up.

 Today we are celebrating the growing up of our Nation. We are having a party to show the world that we too have our status, our independence. It is a sign, though, of our growing up that our guests may include those from what once was “The Enemy”. It is good to know that we now meet as equals and as friends.

 Throughout history we have always celebrated great events. There have been lavish state functions to commemorate the achieving of goals. Yet whatever a country has achieved has really only done because of the perseverance, and commitment of individuals and families. So it is equally fitting that the descendants of those individuals and families should also celebrate, even if in a slightly less formal manner.

 In our case we are the descendants of the men who gave our country Independent status. We have been reared on stories of their exploits. They are a part of what we are.

So no matter how or where we celebrate we are doing it with glad hearts. Everyone likes a holiday and our ancestors were no exception. They would be glad that we should enjoy ourselves because of what they did for us. They would be happy that we have our freedom.

 Today then let us make a toast. “To a free nation and those who gave us that freedom.”

Have a wonderful 4^th of July and meet me on the BBQ on Sunday.

Micha Shalev MHA