Independence Day

As Americans, we love our holidays, especially our Independence Day. When the fourth of July rolls around, it's always easy to be patriotic but what's tough is approaching it from a sports perspective and being original seeing as July 4th doesn't necessary hold a ton of sports memories since baseball and tennis are about the only in-season sports.

You can always point to your favorite athletes who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country's freedom or discuss your favorite sports memories when it comes to patriotism. Look for example at the tragedies 9-11. After these tragic times, sports were there as a positive escape as we saw fans and athletes alike celebrating their freedom and love for this country.

I've got many memories of July 4th that I will never forget and I will remember every little detail about them. The same is true of sports. I remember exactly where I was when Mark McGuire broke the record, even if he was juicing. I will never forget Emmitt Smith running his way into history to become the all-time leading rusher. I remember when Cal Ripken broke the record for most consecutive games played. Who can ever forget Brett Favre's performance on Monday night? Yeah, I know, I'm leaving something out but there are just so many.

I've read and heard stories that will never get old like the Miracle on Ice or the Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier.

Unfortunately in life, we often times remember the negative events, again, such as 9-11 or the Oklahoma City bombing but sports brings that positive aspect and on this fourth of July, we can create more positive memories, like going to the ballpark, getting a hot dog and watching fireworks. What's more patriotic than that?

On that rambling note, I'd just like to wish everybody a happy and safe Independence Day.