Archive
07/04/10 - (1)
Families
The Fourth of July parade, through the center of Lake Nebagamon, Down Lake Avenue, east on Waterfront Drive, up Ravine Park Lane — A square taking the makeshift conglomeration of people, Fire trucks, and miscellaneous vehicles All of forty-five minutes to make three complete circuits — Is just an elaborate manifestation of a celebration Whose real red-white-and blue purpose is to draw families together, For an extended weekend of hoopla and camaraderie, The renewing of blood ties loosened by distance.
It's we gathering on lawns, porches, campgrounds who most matter, Doing our traditional patriotic rituals: Playing badminton, volleyball; tossing Frisbees, horseshoes; Drinking beer, soda pop, lemonade, iced tea; smoking cigarettes; Keeping our dogs and cats apart, our kids together; Setting off cacophonous, innocuous firecrackers; Barbecuing ribs, chicken, steaks, burgers, brats, franks; Exchanging gossip and jocular observations — From politics to fishing to God and everything in between.
And indeed, what togetherness this holiday unleashes, This once-a-year blending of disparate spirits, When we remind ourselves to clap for our volunteer firemen, Cheer on our local office holders, our three robed Knights of Columbus, Our business owners, who throw candy from their floats, As they pass us proud, energized spectators, Lining downtown Lake Nebagamon, for an hour, Increasingly excited about seeing tonight's skyrocket climax — One big family already looking forward to next year's reunion.
07/04/10 - (1)
|
|||
|
|||
