Independence Day

As is true for many in the United States, I watched fireworks light up the sky on the Fourth of July in celebration of Independence Day. It is our family's tradition to travel to Northern Michigan and spend the day with the extended family and watch the fireworks over Lake Michigan. This year's fireworks, and in particular, the finale, were outstanding.

I cannot help but muse on the use of fireworks to celebrate Independence Day. According to info at
http://www.bigfoto.com/themes/fireworks/index.htm

"It is generally recognized that fireworks originated in China during the Sung dynasty (960-1279). A cook in ancient China discovered that a mixture of sulphur, saltpetre, and charcoal was highly flammable and would explode if confined in a small space. This discovery was first used for entertainment. The technique was soon adapted to weaponry and used to shoot rocket-powered arrows."

This is interesting to me in that here in the United States it seems that the progression has been from weaponry to entertainment, rather than the original progression from entertainment to weaponry, as with the Chinese.

And the rockets red glare
The bombs bursting in air
Gave proof through the night
That our flag was still there.

Near this country's beginning, rocketry was used not only as bombs, but also as lighting for night fighting.

Now, of course, we have night vision goggles and infra-red vision glasses. We can seek and destroy in the dark just fine. (BTW, in searching for a night vision image, I found where I could purchase the "first affordable thermal weapons sight designed specifically for homeland security.")

So now, the fireworks-- the bombs bursting in air-- are seen as celebratory only, a joyous spectacle.


Other observations of Independence Day: although beer and bombs do not seem a good combination to me, they certainly are associated on this holiday. Fire and fire water and fireworks are combined in backyard barbecues across the land. It is nothing short of miraculous that as few accidents happen as are reported.

Although in Michigan, as in many states, fireworks are illegal for John Q. Public, and the official fireworks displays are run by firefighters or trained professionals, this does not stop John or Joan Q. P. from setting off fireworks of their own.

I am not speaking metaphorically; I do mean fireworks.

Why have a law if it is not going to be enforced?

Perhaps the police are too busy dealing with drunks to chase down the fireworks offenders.

Question: how much independence do you feel YOU have on this Independence Day?