The Fourth of July

Not to be confused with July 3 or 5, the FOURTH of July is a big deal in our family since it is a time to celebrate generations of Americans' Christ-like sacrifice so that we all could have freedom. It is a time where we find ourselves enjoying the company of family and good friends, too much food and (of all things) large explosions in the night sky.

At any other time of year, you would likely find people bothered by loud, thunderous cracking that echoes off the trees and rattles windows. But one weekend each year reveals boys discovering fire as they shoot off rockets and people supportively look on as Roman candles blaze. Even though by the following year you can hardly remember the previous year's fireworks show, there is something that inspires wonder in every age as we peer into the darkness overhead and anticipate the decibels bulging in our chests.