A Teetering Nation

This morning there's no wind. Our national holiday.

Last night all the trees I could see out my window were bent and unable to recover from blast after blast of ripping wind and rain sheets. It seemed appropriate on the eve of this 4th of July holiday, I welcomed the dark and stormy weather.

I’ve been reading and rereading a book on how to talk and listen to a child. How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk”. By Faber and Mazlish 

“Our purpose is to speak to what is best for our children—

their intelligence, their initiative, their sense of responsibility, their sense of humor, their ability to be sensitive to the needs of others.” 

With patience and an enormous amount of practice. If only the masses in the U.S.A. could trust to be listened to and be treated with respect. Fear as a tactic can be successful to an adult or a leader who is stronger and more powerful. 

I learned a new word this morning -- chicanery, from Merriam Webster, “deception by artful subterfuge or sophistry.” 

From Cambridge Dictionary, “Clever, dishonest talk or behavior that is used to deceive people.”

I appreciate celebrating. To roast marshmallows, eat watermelon. Grill hotdogs and hamburgers. Maybe even eat red jello and some cupcakes with sprinkles in every color. 

Instead of fireworks to celebrate another year as a democracy, I’d rather hear cheers for family gatherings done in love and understanding. 

Triumphant marching music played in honor of individual customs started in the spirit of trust. Hurrahs to people who are creative enough to start new traditions in their family. Every size, shape and type of family. 

Loud and beautiful fireworks shot off to anyone capable of establishing trust and respect with each other. Now that's worth celebrating.