The Things That Are Free

We are close to one of the well-known rituals of the Columbia year: the Fourth of July fireworks. We all know they are at the Lakefront. We know they are sponsored by Howard County and that all are welcome. There will be announcements about when it is permissible to come down to the Lakefront and stake out one’s spot with a blanket. There will be folks who disregard this.

Afterwards there will be complaints about the traffic or the parking or something or other that was displeasing and inconvenient.

Perhaps this is why there are alternative viewing spots around town that provide a good-enough view without the hassle. Many are shared by word of mouth. Some are whispered only among close friends, like the secret knock at a speakeasy.

In my neighborhood the elementary school nearby has been such a gathering place over the years. (I don’t think it is anymore since the reconfiguration of the school’s footprint.) It has taken on its own personality, its own festival atmosphere which is enhanced by the diversity of our students and families. Children run on the grass with glow sticks. There may be ice pops.

When you have risked everything to make a better life for your family and are working multiple jobs to get by, there are many, many extras that you cannot afford. There are many times you must say no to the eager requests of your children when you would rather bring them joy.

That is why my memories of those fireworks at the school have such a pure and holy feeling for me. Everyone there was enjoying the same glorious experience - - without any division by income or enthnicity - - because Fourth of July Fireworks are free.

Everyone is welcome. It will not cost anything extra. It will bring joy.

How many of those families will be outside enjoying the fireworks this year? How many will stay indoors, looking at the teary and uncomprehending faces of their children and keep their doors locked against the horrors outside?

Independence Day is meant to remind us of what we rejected and what we embraced when we created a new nation.

If children who have every potential to learn and grow and become valuable members of our communities are to be hidden in the dark on a night when should be celebrating freedom…

What are we rejecting? What are we embracing?

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