Independence Day

Fireworks and The 4th of July...

I could not yet drive. I had not yet learned how to RIDE A BUS.

A gal at adult care home wanted a friend to go with her to view the Fireworks on the waterfront in Seattle in 1998 and asked me.

I coughed.

- You're a Vet aren't you, she asked?

I said, yes-but I don't even know how to ride a BUS yet!

Don't worry about it, I DO. We'll have FUN!

["Fun?" I had little idea of what that even was anymore]

So I said yes.

Ya know, Seattle is in some ways, an amazing place. With folks from places all over the world living even within her city limits.

Her harbor was one of the first things I saw when I woke from coma. It was there I learned I really could not even ride a bike. So MUCH and then?

The Fourth Of July?

I did not look forward to it. I do not like explosions from personal history that told me rockets no longer were always "nice." -wince.

I went anyway and yes, there WERE people with backgrounds from all over the world. They smiled and joked and then the fireworks began and? Never to me? Seemed to stop...

-But What a show! 8-)

And Wonderful MUSIC to go along as well! 8-)

I was awed. I was AMAZED! For a little while? I had fun... And?

By the time I got home? I had learned to ride a bus... Even me... -wow.

JULY FOURTH REMAINS to this day A day of TRIUMPH to me. 8-)

Of Joy and Happiness. Of Respect and Gratitude and Friendship. 8-)

You know, most of my "ability to ride a bus" has been "traded" for other things over time-but it was my FIRST STEP toward INDEPENDENCE.

That is and was, so important...

-And after all, it is USA's Independence Day... 8-)

ROA MY Beautiful Trike, & Triking, continue that theme for me... TODAY.
I watch the fireworks on TV now...

I do not have the wonderful place to see them that I was offered on the waterfront my first year, and that I remain so grateful for today.

As I do?

I cannot do it though? Without smiles deep inside KNOWING how much this day means to ME, in so many, many broad ways however... And CONTINUES TO...

The "day of the week" it is actually celebrated? -shrug.

It is the "DAY..." that counts so much to me...

Miles of Smiles to you and your OWN INDEPENDENCE...

Sincerely,

Thomas...