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HetFlexK 51M
157 posts
7/2/2022 10:59 pm
worried for nothing


A few days ago I heard the distinct sound of fireworks popping right around the time that dusk was settling in. There were still many days to go until the 4th / fourth of July rolled around, so I admit I got pretty upset at the notion that<b> illegal </font></b>fireworks were already starting. The pessimist in me figured it was going to be a tough couple of weeks, but it turns out I was incorrect, and I am extremely happy to admit that. For the most part, it has been very quiet around here, at least as far as that goes. I’m still dealing with revving engines, bumping bass from stereos, and modified exhaust systems that make a vehicle ridiculously noisy but at least when the sun goes down I haven’t also been dealing with loud, concussive pops that are sudden and unpredictable. There’s nothing like spending your evenings jumping out of your skin from being startled to make you love Independence Day.

When a fireworks stand popped up in the parking lot of the nearest grocery store I was very tempted to go and make a fuss. I’d like to approach the folks selling them and ask if they give any thought to the welfare of Veterans, domestic and wild animals, or people who just don’t react well to explosions in the sky. I’d want to ask people making purchases the same thing. My days of being confrontational are quickly waning though, and this is a battle I know I would not win. Most folks don’t care about anything but themselves and the good time they have planned. The cost to others doesn’t even factor into their decisions. That is why the cities I live in are filled with people making as much noise as they possibly can, day and night, with no regard for anyone in their proximity. That is why I am still determined to escape as soon as possible.

Were it not for my fall from the ladder at the end of March I would probably not be in the city this year, for the holiday. I’ve been stressed about the fact that I will be around, but it turns out that was pretty unnecessary. In fact, I can’t recall the last time I had a 4th / fourth of July (or the weeks leading up to it at least) that was calmer and quieter. I am happy to admit my fears were unfounded and grateful for the relatively peaceful evenings leading up tp the big night. My years in Woodburn, Oregon were torturous by comparison, so I remain grateful, and hopeful the night of the 4th / fourth doesn’t drag on too long. If it does, that’ll be a small price to pay for all the silence that preceded it.


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