The Last Bang

It was a hot July night on our friend's farm as I sat there on the bed of the truck, watching the night sky explode in various colors. I felt each bang in my chest, as the noise was so great. Laughter was sounded all around me and I couldn't help but smile at the thought of it. Even if I wasn't listening to the subject of their laughter, it still filled me with a sort of happiness.

I was amazed at the quality of this show, seeing as it was a private one. I watched a public show a few weeks later and though I did enjoy myself, watching little kids play on the grass nearby and talking with friends, I must admit I have been spoiled. There is something so much more impressive about setting them off yourself and having it match the performance of a public one. I would say that the real reason I prefer it is the seclusion. Being able to escape the crowds and still reap the benefits is such a refreshing bonus.

                 "Only our individual faith in freedom can keep us free." -Dwight D. Eisenhower

It's the moment we all look forward to, from the time that we arrive, to the first explosion, there is only one thing on our minds. The excitement builds in suspense and then we blink and it's over. We smile because it was worth it, it was what we expected. At a public firework display the massive crowd of strangers clap sophisticatedly out of appreciation, as a means to say thank you to the ones that set them off. That night on the farm, when the last bang was sounded we shouted to fill the silence, almost as a means to say thank you to those that came before us and paid for this thing that we call freedom. We might not know all of their names, but we will remember their bravery and sacrifice forever. 

   "These are the things that make us feel alive

   These are the things that make us realize

   Life is beautiful"-The Afters