France’s National Holiday is a patriotic day that is celebrated every July 14. It is a proud day for all the French to celebrate their democratic values and the French Republic. This day also represents the termination of the French Monarchy. I was glad that I took part of this grand celebration. It gave me a different perspective of how a foreign country celebrates its independence. The festivities were fun and very nationalistic. It was evident that the French were honoring themselves for what their ancestors accomplished. I was not able to attend the parade but I probably would have not been able to handle it. The language and my lack of knowledge of the Arc de Triomphe would have been in the way. However, I did learn that an unknown soldier was buried in the Arc de Triomphe in honor of all the soldiers that have fought in battle. The idea of laying an unknown person to represent a whole country seems strange but very patriotic. It represents unity and trust amongst the country. This sign of selflessness indicates that their feelings towards a monarchy have drastically changed. The way France displayed its nationalism through a soldier makes me question what America has done to unite the country. America does pay tribute to all its soldiers and families but I feel like it is not enough. When July 4 is mentioned, the words that follow are barbeque and fireworks; useless words that do not have a significant meaning. On the other hand, Mexico follows tradition by allowing the President to wave the Mexican Flag while chanting known expressions to all his Mexican citizens. This act is done by all Mexican citizens. I now realized each country has its own way of celebrating its independence and honoring soldiers. If only people would celebrate Earth every year. I guess the world should follow Paris’s example of hosting agricultural celebrations every year. The idea of celebrating nature for all the wonders it has produced seems rather smart. If honoring the history of a country is important, I strongly believe the planet should be honored as well. It is the planet that has allowed us to inhabit and take control. |
