Independence doesn't mean standing alone

It's not Friday, but it's a holiday in the middle of the week.  We make an exception and have a cocktail to help us take a moment to slow down in the middle of what looks to be a long hot Summer.  Besides, I've been doing a lot of thinking about independence these days and it just happens to fall in line with the theme.
We consider independence an internal goal probably before we can even talk.  It's that little push that makes us wonder if we really need help from anyone else.  What fun exists outside that fence that is being kept from us?  Is that water really too deep?  Do I need someone to tell me...well, anything?
I know we are celebrating the day that we let Mother England know we could do all of those things and more, but I think that perhaps this view of independence makes us think that we somehow have to destroy an existing relationship to become independent.  We think that those ties have to be severed with a passion in order to remain firm.  So oftentimes, we preclude independence with some kind of act to make sure the cord is cut and cauterized. But what we soon learn that we need those people we so wanted gone are missed.  They helped make us who we are.
Independence doesn't mean you have to stand alone or even on top of anyone to have it. It might mean you have to prove something to those who have cared for you, but there doesn't have to be fireworks. Today, we toast to independence that is started with a simple phrase, "Thank you for preparing me, but I'm ready to do this on my own."  You can keep your supporters this way, and never have to stand completely alone. After all , isn't the best part of becoming independent being able to go back and help those who brought you there?  CHEERS FRIENDS, HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!  LONG MAY SHE WAVE!

Joy's "Clearly Independent Punch"

2 oz of Cherry Vodka
2 oz of Lemon Soda
Blueberries and Raspberries
A splash of Club Soda

Pour all over ice and garnish with berries.