Lots of people probably have Christmas or Thanksgiving or their birthday as their favorite holiday. That’s not me (at least not since I started getting underwear for Christmas instead of toys). My favorite holiday is the 4th of July. Independence Day. Our nation’s birthday. Admittedly, at first, my reasons were pretty shallow. I loved the fireworks, picnics, taking time off from work. I would always try and schedule vacation around the 4th of July, or at least take a couple extra days off. It always felt like the year started moving faster once the 4th of July had passed. Blink and you were at Thanksgiving, then Christmas. So taking a break right in the middle was really refreshing.
I have had the pleasure of going to Red, White and Boom in Columbus, Ohio now for over 15 years. It is the largest fireworks show in Ohio, set to a fantastic soundtrack, with current music, patriotic classics, and even a little something special for us Ohio State Buckeye fans. It is that music, and those songs, that remind me of what I truly believe this holiday should be about. Family, friends, and renewing a love for our country and building faith that we live in an amazing place in this world.
America is still the land of opportunity. Opportunity to achieve whatever you are willing to get out and work for. When I was given the opportunity to purchase Box King, I thought I knew how much work it was going to be. I thought with a little hard work, it would be a nice way for my parents to have a little extra income and provide a living for myself. Then Box King started to grow. I added employees, stayed open longer hours, and the work got even harder. But as the work got harder, so the opportunity grew.
I have had the opportunity to work with both family and friends. Provide them with income and stability. I’ve had wonderful customers become close friends as Box King has helped with adoption paperwork, wedding invitations, baby shower announcements, and even funeral programs. Friendships that I hope will last a lifetime.
So as I get ready to take a few days off for the 4th of July , I want to leave you with this. Let this holiday refresh you. Whether with family, friends, or even if you have to work, be thankful. I’m grateful for the terrific staff I have here at Box King. Kathy, Jeanette, April and Catalina are my backbone. If you’ve had a good experience here, it’s because of them. Please have a safe and happy 4th of July.
Steve
