Phetasy News - America Is Already Great
Phetasy News - America Is Already Great
The Emperor Has No Gender, Farrah Storr On The Death of the Magazine, Summer, Summer, Summertime, Politically Homeless - It's Like Harry Potter, Why Pride Lost The Public & Bridget on Glenn Beck!
Greetings from the Phetaverse!
The 4th of July is upon us, one of my favorite holidays. Maybe it’s from growing up with Greatest Generation grandparents who lived through WWII and truly loved this country and the 4th—but it’s always moved me. It’s the first time in years that I’m not attending the fireworks at the Hollywood Bowl with my beloved aunt and uncle. It’s one of my favorite events (and something I wish I was taking my daughter to as she is currently obsessed with the Beach Boys and they are playing this year).
My favorite part of the event isn’t even the spectacular fireworks display—it’s when the conductor goes through all the branches of the military and the folks in the audience who have served stand up and everyone in the Bowl claps and hoots and hollers for them. Every year the conductor says something about how much we take for granted, particularly the people who have sacrificed their lives or even a part of their life, to serve our country. He reminds us that we are able to go about our day because somewhere, someone is watching out for us. It always makes me emotional.
This country isn’t perfect, far from it, and we’ve done some horrible things—but America, for all her faults, has been a beacon of hope, opportunity, and freedom. It’s a country where you can work hard and bet on yourself and change your life. This remains true despite what the media or recent college graduates might have you believe. On this 4th of July, take a moment to honor the sacrifices made by those who have served this country, and if you are able, perhaps donate to a place like the Gary Sinise Foundation or somewhere else you prefer that supports our veterans. If you have a place you love, let us know!
If you’re reading this in America, have a safe and beautiful 4th of July with your friends and family. We are so lucky.
Thumbnail artwork by Lara Cullen.
Email laracullenstudio@gmail.com to inquire or contact her.
Bridget, I am a decorated combat veteran and I make a point NOT to stand at those kind of events. I didn't do what I did for the citizens of this country, I did it for me because I had an obligation and I was carrying out orders. I am not thrilled when someone says, "thank you for your service." I say "thank you" but I want to say, "I didn't do it for you, I did ir for me." As for the Fourth of July, it's the day we celebrate the declaration of independence from Britain (although the actual declaration wasn't signed on that date.) We celebrate the Fourth because our forefathers, at least the ones of those of us whose ancestors in America go back that far, declared themselves independent of a country that became our best friend. FYI, I am certain there are all kinds of fireworks around Austin. There certainly are around Houston. I'm looking forward to trying to keep my dogs calm while my across-the-fence and easement neighbor shoots fireworks toward my house. By the way, all that shooting off fireworks will trigger some veteran's PTSD. It would trigger mine if I had it.
Happy 4th ... we bought a beautiful wood carved flag from these guys ... https://www.flagsofvalor.com/collections/wooden-american-flag-made-by-veterans