fire in the sky

There is a relentless shroud of smog enveloping the greater Los Angeles area, one that was thickened two or three-fold tonight by thousands of explosives. As soon as the sun's light grew dim, fireworks ignited, illuminating the growing darkness at the climax of their flights from backyards and residential streets.

There was plenty of beer and watermelon. Barbecues sizzled in unison like no other day out of the year. Most hard-workers even got the night off.

Today marked America's 233rd birthday; one of the rare occasions which could justify such a remarkable increase in air pollution. But, with every smoke-filled breath inhaled tonight, I could taste the refreshing, life-giving oxygen of freedom.

It's not about national superiority. Or haughtily declaring America to have every answer. It's about being thankful for freedom.

I don't care how right-wing, left-wing, wing-a-ding you may be.
No one is above thanking God for what we have.