Essence Blog

If celebration feels complicated right now

celebrate emotional healing life transitions mindfulness Jul 03, 2025

Tomorrow is the 4th of July holiday here in the U.S. However, my holiday usually begins early, as my neighborhood hosts an annual big street party on July 3rd. We come together over food, friends, and music. It’s usually a great time. But when I was asked about my weekend plans earlier this week, I could sense my own lack of enthusiasm.

To be honest, I don’t feel very patriotic right now. As a deeply feeling person, the violence, dehumanization, and cruelty I’m witnessing cross the line of valu...