Independence Day

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Every July 4th I wander down the street and watch the Ryan Place parade in the sweltering July heat. It's a neighborhood event that has more patriotism in its pinky finger than anything you'll seen on your HD TV from the comfort of your air-conditioned house. To hell with fireworks -- this is my favorite thing about the 4th.

Neighbors and friends from near and not so near gather for the fun. Differences are put aside and we share the sense of celebration.

I love the description "the American Experiment," despite attempts to co-opt the term for narrow partisan purposes. The experiment fails when we stop recognizing that no one person or group has a monopoly on wisdom, virtue, common sense or love of country.

Me and my good friend the Whited Sepulchre at the Ryan Place Parade.

Comments

Unknown said…
Hey! I didn't know you were in my 'hood!

Did you get to experience the jackass on the Fort Worth/Dallas float braying about how we should all give thanks that we live in REPUBLICAN Texas?

Made me proud to be an American. If by "proud" I mean sad that there are still people who think that your political affiliation contributes in some way to your sense of love for country.
10:04 AM
The Whited Sepulchre said…
Would this be Pete Wann, my occasional ally against all fundamentalisms (except the Free Market variety)??
1:46 PM
Dr Ralph said…
Pete -- I've lived Texas most of my life and in Fairmount for 27 years; I've learned to ignore the minor annoyances that come with living here like 100 degree weather, fire ants and right wing bozos.

Imagine my surprise when I also saw East-sider Whited Sepulchre enjoying our parade.
5:54 AM
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