By Rosemary Lewallen
Martial music is played as a prelude
to the boom of exploding fire,
sparkling in varied colors that twinkle
like stars in the inky night.
We celebrate the birthday of our nation,
partying with family and friends,
sharing a meal and music,
watching fireworks light up the sky.
We proclaim that freedom has a cost.
People have died to give us liberty.
We may not agree on politics,
but we unite as Americans on this day.
This is the “land of the free
because of the brave.”
We must remain vigilant
to keep it that way.
We dress in red, white, and blue
on the Fourth of July.
Even babies and pets are decorated.
Is that all there is to patriotism?
Every day we see veterans living on the streets,
many with mental illness and drug addiction.
Do we really honor all those who
have served our country in the military?
On July Fourth families get together to feast,
passing out sandwiches, potato chips and sweets,
moments of precious generational bonding,
dancing to the beat of democracy.
Let us not forget our history
or those who sacrificed to keep us free.
May we always support our veterans
no matter the date of the year.
