Fireworks on the Fourth of July...

Fourth of July.. backyard cook outs and fireworks...  these have always heralded the beginning of summer.. As we watched local fireworks last evening.. parked among many others across the street from a large amusement park... I pondered what it is that draws so many Americans to fireworks displays in their respective towns. Of course, one could argue that it is pure patriotism which draws crowds on our patriotic holiday. But I surmise it is the act of the "ritual".... a time honored event which has been with us for generations.. As I stood with my family.. among so many others who sat on the hoods of their vehicles or gathered along the fence...the  yelps of delight from children as each blast of color and light soared into the clear night sky... I realized that it is the wonderment which holds us all...and brings us back....the wonderment that we can all just pause and enjoy magnificent displays of celebration... and then the finale...a grand burst of colors and sounds..... and know that across the nation..on this lovely summer's eve....we share this celebration....

Happy birthday to our nation! May freedom ring true.....