The sun’s light coming through the window wakes me, and I know it will be a glorious Fourth of July day—perfect for parades, picnics, barbecues, a trip to the beach or lake for swimming or boating.
When I go outside to tend the garden, I admire the summer colors of the flowers, the tomatoes that have grown bigger every day, and the dark green leaves and orange flowers of the squash vines extending long upon the ground. I know that in the cornfields the corn is growing taller and will soon be ready for harvest. I anticipate enjoying its sweet taste.
I think of evening when I will watch fireworks explode against the dark, night sky, and I will be thankful for the blessings and freedoms I have here in America.
—Bernadette R. Gentry