Independence Day 2023

“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.” Ronald Reagan

My home town does its Independence Day Fireworks the Saturday before the fourth. As I stood in my back yard watching the display and flinching at the loud booms, it occurred to me that for the men and women who have actually seen “the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air,” fireworks cannot be very much fun. In their world, these explosions cost them comrades or body parts. Memories of the carnage can easily be triggered by the noise or the glare. Having sworn to protect this nation, they often endure in silence, reluctant to share their pain and spoil everyone else’s holiday. I had an uncle-in-law who served in Viet Nam – I will never forget him dropping to the floor and scrambling for cover when a car backfired outside his house the week after he returned. I cannot imagine him enjoying fireworks.

I am not saying that we should not celebrate Independence Day or have fireworks displays, but rather that we should celebrate with an eye toward the folks who made and continue to make it possible. I am suggesting that while we are all posting on social media about limiting fireworks to protect our frightened dogs and cats, perhaps we should also be protecting and considerate of the folks who gave so much so that we would have cause to celebrate. I pray that we as a nation learn to focus on what makes us alike, instead of constantly emphasizing our differences. Enjoy family and friends, watch a parade, watch a child watch a parade with the wonder that only small children can exhibit so freely. While you’re at it, watch the person who looks frozen instead of excited, and pray for them as well. Ask if they’re OK – and listen if they need to talk. You’ll be glad you did.

Stop back on Monday as the North American Shop Hop continues visiting quilt shops in eastern Pennsylvania.