Independence Day. And no one’s stopping us – but us.

by Michael Morse, contributing writer

Photo: The Family of Man. Drum Major by Alfred Eisenstaedt

If ever there was a perfect time for a celebration, this is it. The time is now to throw away our troubles, put down our frustration, kick our hopelessness to the curb, let our far too long hair down, and party!

And what better place to party then right here in the USA. This is the place where the action is. This is the place everybody wants to be. And this is the day we can all take a deep breath, grab a cold drink, fill a plate, sit back and enjoy all we have created.

It’s Independence Day, and with that independence comes the responsibility to steer our own ship, create our own happiness, and make some memories. The only ones stopping us from seizing this day is us.

We decide whether to embrace the freedoms that have been established and preserved since July 4th, 1776.

We have been granted the honor of carrying the tradition of liberty.

We now know exactly how precious the gifts given to us are.

The 4th of July party we create is up to us. We’re Americans, we don’t need big crowds. We won a revolution with small groups of patriots engaging a giant army, we can certainly create a magnificent celebration with small groups of revelers wearing masks and enjoying each other’s company from a safe distance. 

Just as fireworks can be appreciated without touching, so too can parties be had without crowding. The best ones are the intimate gatherings, a small group of close friends and family enjoying the day. Knowing that there are thousands of similar get togethers happening all around us, each one as different as the people there, but as alike as people everywhere celebrating our nation’s birthday is exactly what our country needs right now.

So get it together, people, love your neighbor, turn up the music, find some fireworks, and enjoy this day; our day, and feel just how truly magnificent it is.

Michael Morse spent 23 years as a firefighter/EMT with the Providence Fire Department before retiring in 2013 as Captain, Rescue Co. 5. He is an author of several books, most offering fellow firefighter/EMTs and the general population alike a poignant glimpse into one person’s journey through life, work and hope for the future. He is a Warwick resident.