As I watched the local Fourth fireworks celebration from my window this evening, I thought how wonderful it is to live where I do and have this pleasure from the comfort of my home.
Then I scratched my head. Where I grew up, I had this opportunity every year. Not just a local fireworks celebration, but the Fourth of July extravaganza on the Boston Esplanade.
From our home, we could watch the military jets flyover, hear a muffled Pops orchestra, and see the fireworks finale. Whether I was in Boston or sitting on the back porch in Brookline, I had the firsthand experience.
How my father, grandfather and I looked forward to that. The one time, or maybe two, I spent a Fourth of July away from “home”, it just wasn’t the same – in any way. A Fourth spent in the heart Beantown, or from my perch in Brookline, was better than any on the Cape or elsewhere.
In that moment tonight when I scratched my head, I had to laugh. Why did I find this so special? So wonderful? Have I been out of the city for that long? Had I forgotten how fortunate I had been?
With each firework that was set-off, I took a walk down memory lane and realized that I took it for granted. Though I’ve been out of Brookline since 2008, my parents moved north just shy of three years ago. It was then when I said farewell to Brookline, to Boston and the history that was my life – Part I.
Today, I am in Part II – and I celebrated my life in New Hampshire for the first time this evening, even though I’ve been here for six plus years. I love where I live. I honored my past, was beyond grateful, and recalled my childhood and life. The local fireworks sparked so much!
But today, when I was actually in Brookline, I was very much reminded that my past – is past. Our five generation home doesn’t exist – it’s a construction site. And our hometown, doesn’t necessarily reflect who we are or where we came from – sadly. Yet some of our loved ones – family, friends – remain, and we had the pleasure of visiting with them today.
Tonight, I found myself anticipating the local fireworks, wondering how my little Viv would react this year, and overjoyed in so many ways. And it’s only Saturday, July 2nd!
I’m so excited to soon share my July Fourth Traditions Around the World article that was featured in Beautiful Table Settings Magazine, an online publication within a private group. It will provide more insight into my Independence Day history.
But I am reminiscing and missing those days. I’m also missing what I thought would be, with those I love. Who knows what the future holds – none of us.
What an explosion of nostalgia I experienced this evening! Happy Fourth of July weekend to you all!
