A Brit’s exposure to Independence Day

Steven Everett

As the historic 4th of July passes for another year, Northwood University postgraduate student Steven Everett reflects on his stereotypical American experience.      

English-born Everett was aware of the camaraderie and patriotism shown from the American citizens, but was somewhat unsure of the experience he was going to gain himself.

The student decided to test his reactions and fully utilize his experience by enduring a camping trip in Omer, Michigan with five native Michiganders and one Illinoisaniaiaian.

As Everett began to take the trip up north through the country roads, reality and anxiety began to sink in: he was British, in the woods with patriotic Americas, and it was the 4th of July.  He began to pray to Gordon Brown while images of David Beckham danced in his head. 

Everett was quoted: “I am looking forward to seeing what you Yanks have to offer, but at the same time, as a British citizen, I am concerned of the awkwardness of celebrating a historical event which a patriotic English born citizen would perceive as unfavorable.”

Everett added: “Why would I celebrate an event in which the Americans declared independence from us?”

Everett further added: “It may turn out fine, the day in history occurred over 200 years ago.”

After Everett commented and questioned his commitment to his Independence Day experiences, he managed to push the uncertainties to the back of his mind and concentrate on the weekends’ happenings.

As the graduate gang arrived at their destination, Everett’s inexperience prevailed as the Americans took full control of campsite “setting up” procedures.

Everett seemed confused and somewhat useless to help with these procedures; however, he seemed to break the ice with the utilization of his initiative.  The Englishman helped his colleagues by repeatedly collecting wood for the fire to combat the cold nights.  He also regaled them with wonderful tales of his adventures at Hogwarts. 

Everett’s expressions showed he was settling in to his new environment—more so when the first beer was cracked open – something he was much more accustomed to.

As Independence Day eve was coming to a close, night fell with a strong, cool air. Everett became more concerned with his sleeping conditions instead of his original fear—waking up tied to a tree while jubilant Americans fired bottle rockets at his gaunt British frame. 

He was quoted: “It is going to be bloody freezing in that tent”.

As the morning sun rose, Everett was woken by his friend’s excitement for the Independence Day activity, in the form of canoeing.  Ah, is there anything more American than floating down a shallow river, in a rented canoe, while drinking cheap beer, and singing Bon Jovi hits?  No!

Independence Day did, however, present some points of contention between the campers.

Everett was quoted: “I am sorry but I cannot say Happy Independence Day to you; it is just not the right gesture.”

He added: “I feel as though I have an overhaul of demons above my head cursing my interaction with American celebrations.” 

While Steve sat in fear that his U.K. citizenship was being rescinded, the rest of the team prepared for the day’s activity.

During the canoe trip, Steven seemed to be extremely enthusiastic as to what wildlife he would see on his travels and how fast he and his partner could canoe back down the river towards their destination.

He was quoted on numerous occasions: “We need to see a turtle; we do not get any type of turtles in the wild of England, other than Camilla Parker Boyle.”  That’s a hilarious British joke for all my internationally educated readers. 

These distractions forced Everett to forget the fact he was celebrating Independence Day.

Everett and his Illinoisan partner were experiencing life in a canoe for the first time; this was evident in the early stages with their confusion of direction.  However after their ‘country’ colleagues were relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere, both Everett and his canoe partner decided enough was enough, and off they went.

Everett recalls: “We experienced the relaxing style and the full throttle workout that went with canoeing. What a day.”

As Everett and his Illinoisan colleague returned back to camp, the two decided to get to work and cut up some wood for the night’s fire.

With three hours passing the final pair returned to camp, looking exhausted and hungry. It was not too long before the food was cooking and the group was reflecting on the day’s activity.

It was at this stage, that Everett realized something that he never thought would come to fruition. 

He was quoted: “I have had a great couple of days and encountered experiences with people in a setting which I may never get the opportunity to do again. Why should I feel guilty—although it does feel kind of weird? I should reverse the situation and consider how good the Americans have been to me in accepting my nationality and involving me in their celebrations. My persona has totally changed.” 

After Everett participated in a firework celebration with the rest of his American colleagues, the English-born citizen felt accomplished.  He proceeded to extol the virtues of the beautiful American culture while break dancing in the flickering fire-lit camp site.

Everett woke up the following morning, exerting the same excitement and pleasure that the Americans did in the wake of Independence Day. 

As the group of individuals listened to country music and drove down country roads, Everett revealed how his Michigan Independence Day experience allowed him to feel accepted in an environment that had the potential to make an English man feel very uncomfortable.  He may never appreciate Michigan staples like Kid Rock or the Red Wings, but his Independence Day 2009 experience will always have a special place in his heart.