An Evening Sky On The Fourth of July

An Evening Sky on the Fourth of July

         Fireworks streak into the night sky leaving a blazing rainbow of sparks. At the apex of it’s flight it burst into gloriously bright colors of red and gold, blossoming across the sky and coaxing ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaaahs’ from the people seated on the grass far below. A reverberating boom follows the spectacular sight and causes small ripples to form in my diet coke. We all eagerly await the next aerial demonstration and are not disappointed as a silver streak arcs from the ground even before the final sparks of the last are spent. And so it goes as fireworks of every shape, size, and magnitude fill the July Fourth evening sky.

         The scene is usually the climax of a busy day ranging from parades in the morning demonstrating patriotic themes on all the floats and music from the marching bands, which always have their own rendition of “The Stars and Stripes Forever”. Later in the day we walk through the festival area where we get hot dogs, cotton candy, and the appropriate drinks, depending on whether or not you are a ‘tea-totaller’. It is a scene that is pure “Americana.” Although, I am quite sure at other times other peoples in other lands celebrate similar events proclaiming their national pride. But, here in America, this is what the Fourth of July is all about.

         But, how often do we pause to consider the source of this aerial demonstration. The exploding pyrotechnics and resounding booms send giggles through the youngsters. But, there are men and women among us who have seen similar aerial demonstrations in real life. Rockets and explosions are products of war. For generations our fellow Americans have seen for real the violence of which our fireworks mimic.

         I point this out not to cast a damper to the joy of the celebration. Not at all—for we should celebrate what has been done for us. We must celebrate their sacrifice and honor their memory. My father was one of those who paid this price. As a young Marine, he stormed the sands of Okinawa in WWII. He saw things a young man should not have to see; and did things that he would never forget. He did it for an idea, for a way of life, for reasons that he could never explain or even understand himself. My friend Tor is one of those young men who paid a great price. My eternal thanks and respect go to him. I walked beside the Wall in Washington D.C. and ran my fingers across the names on that wall--so many names. I said thank you to each of them. I will never forget them and what they did.

         Our young men and women again serve for us in Iraq. There is no consciousable way that anyone could not show support to these fine people. The liberal press does not do them honor. We must. So, I urge each of you to enjoy the fireworks. Enjoy the day and laugh and play. When the colorful display lights the night sky above me, I will remember those who paid the price. And I will whisper to them a quiet thanks--thanks for all they’ve done for me.