Celebrating Independence

The fourth of July is an interesting holiday, in that we are commemorating the independence from a country that today is arguably our closest ally. We enjoy a special relationship with them as Americans which makes watching scenes of Mel Gibson butchering British redcoats in "The Patriot" somewhat awkward. Umm... should we be cheering an American killing people who helped establish our nation and our closest current allies? Watching an Australian actor portray an American killing English soldiers is emotionally confusing.

Many years ago I had asked a friend from the UK what British expats living in the United States did during the July 4th holiday. "We sulk," he joked - at least I think he was joking.

Certainly we're not the only nation that celebrates independence, but there's something distinctly about the American holiday. I wonder if the "independent spirit" is so often considered an American attribute. I'm not sure that's necessarily a compliment. Even if it's intended as such, I'm not sure if it's a good thing.

I wonder if over time, the independent spirit of America has involved from a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and "can do" attitude to an anti-interdependence spirit, which isn't the same thing. Has our society put too high a premium in the refusal to engage in deeper cooperation with others, the bravado associated with "Lone Ranger"-type attitudes, and a general disdain for community good? Has independence become an isolationist trait where people have no regard for the impact of their words, actions and decisions upon others in society? Is the spirit of independence no longer "can do", but "I'm going to do whatever the hell I want?"