Sometimes lost in a day filled with barbecue cookouts, family get togethers and firework displays is the reason why many of us are off from work and able to travel for the Fourth of July.

By adopting the Declaration of Independence on this day 236 years ago, members of the Second Continental Congress forever changed the world and introduced a new form of government based on freedom and choices.

Although important political decisions are being made on a seemingly everyday basis in Washington this month — decisions that have caused party lines to be redrawn and sparked debates about legalities — what’s important to remember is that we have the ability to vote for change in this November’s election if we so choose.

Far too many other counties do not have that option.

So today, July 4, put aside your differences and celebrate the fact that the United States of America is free and that democracy and the voice of the people still govern this nation.

Although many changes have occurred since our forefathers declared us free from oppression in 1776, our independence remains.

The belief that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights” has enabled us utilize our freedoms and continue to be the greatest country in the world.

So as the fireworks burst above your lawnchair this Fourth of July, remember how we’ve gotten to this point and what our freedom stands for.