Happy Independence Day America!
July 4th, 2022
Celebrating Our Country
Remember July 4th when you were a kid? The local parade, a barbecue with family, staying out late to see fireworks at a beach or park nearby--maybe a neighbor had sparklers for all the children. It was simple, and it was great! It felt happy—like a real celebration. We all felt proud.
On the North Fork, it still sometimes has that 1950s, 1960s feel in many ways. Most villages still have a parade. We’ve gone to various fireworks, and it’s wonderful dropping anchor to watch the Crescent Beach Fireworks on Shelter Island from the water side. It’s just very cool.
I also feel that celebratory feeling when I watch the NYC fireworks display over the East River along with the incredible musical selections. It’s truly moving, and somehow the “pomp” and over the top fireworks capture what this day is all about.
It is important to the U.S. and to the world that America is a country that can come together. The sons, daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren of immigrants that have melded their cultures to become Americans have the most true and generous hearts. This wonderful spirit is what we have been known for throughout the world, since the very beginning of our nation in 1776. Indeed, from our beginnings in colonial times, we are a country of immigrants.
Yet increasingly, we seem to be unable to put our differences aside and there is an overriding feeling of divisiveness that can’t be glossed over. The chasm runs deep and emotions run high. In the words of Thomas Paine, “These are the times that try men's souls.” Still, we have much to celebrate.
Wishing you a joyous and safe holiday--Happy Fourth of July Everyone -- from all of us at Hummingbird!
