Although it’s late on the eve of July 4th it is pointless to go to bed, as several of my neighbors are getting a head start on the "illuminations" part of John Adams' declaration. Here is a photo from a 4th of July fireworks display over Terminal Tower in Cleveland’s public square several years ago, preceded by a patriotic concert by the Cleveland Orchestra. In this instance I was there with a couple of friends and my nephew Brian who was living in the area for the summer, earning some college money working for Kokosing. It's a little tricky photographing fireworks but I was happy with this one.
In addition to all the hoopla, it is good to reflect on the historical significance of this day. Here is the last paragraph of the Declaration of Independence:
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Declaration_of_Independence
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