Red, White and Blueberry Salad

On the United States Independence Day this year, my family will be traveling in Turkey where some Turkish citizens have recently been rallying and holding protests to protect and assert their own rights and freedoms. It's hard for many Americans, who have lived with religious and political freedom for many generations, to imagine living in a place where people's rights are more limited. Some Americans have become so complacent about our freedoms that they don't even bother to vote in elections or participate in political action of any sort.

I've heard a lot of people say that they're not interested in politics so they don't pay any attention to what is happening with our government. However, much of what we consider important is regulated or influenced by our elected leaders, whether it's keeping our air clean, protecting our national parks, our involvement in conflicts abroad, whether our roads are paved and bridges rebuilt, whether our sources of food are safe, and so much more.

On July 4th, in addition to lighting up the grill, going to the beach or the pool, and generally celebrating this country we love, let's also remember to appreciate our independence by getting involved in some way as citizens, whether through voting, meeting with legislators, holding a political event to meet a candidate running for office, sending an email or letter to a legislator concerning something you care about, volunteering for a candidate or cause you believe in, or however else you see fit. For a delicious patriotic dessert, try our Fourth of July Berry Sweetza Pizza.