July 4th, Independence Day, has fallen into that oddly comfortable spot that so many other American holidays now find themselves in. Just as Thanksgiving is celebrated as both a commemoration of the beginnings of the United States and a tradition of family fellowship, July 4th has come to symbolize not only the official birth of the nation, but is also just a really good excuse to celebrate the heck out of summer.

Think about it: when you’re standing out in the middle of the baseball field, after the sun has set, and the fireworks begin exploding and lighting up the sky above you, are you somberly reflecting on the fallen American patriots who made your freedom possible? Or are you just sighing happily, holding your loved ones close and appreciating the warm summer breeze? July 4th is about both of those things, both of those feelings, and each is just as important as the other.

In a way, though, it kind of makes sense, this seeming contradiction between reasons for celebrating the 4th of July. Because if you want to be honest, that’s what America is really about, at its core: the ability to relax with friends on a comfortable evening, and enjoy the company of those you love. And for the loved ones that are far why not send out July 4th Ecards.