This weekend we will celebrate the Fourth of July, the birthday of our country.

Even with all our problems, we have a great country. Things will improve. They always have, they always will, just not as fast as many of us would like.

During the years we were raising our five children, I don’t believe we ever missed taking them to see fireworks on the Fourth.

Now we are complacent. We sit at home, possibly watching fireworks on television, while trying to keep the dog calm because Jake doesn’t like the noise.

They Are Ubiquitous

In our city, you can’t drive anywhere today without seeing a fireworks store.

Some are small, using abandoned gas stations or trailers. Others are in the mega or super stores.

Sometimes I like to stop and look at all different fireworks being offered for sale, having only ever purchased sparklers.

No, I have never purchased a firecracker, although I have been given some to set off. In Ohio, it’s illegal to set off fireworks. I often wonder where people go to use all the fireworks purchased.

However, l know the answer. Many of these fireworks are used on my street, as evidenced by the show we get just sitting in our backyard.

I wonder if we aren’t depriving youngsters of some fun by not allowing them to use some fireworks.

Just as with a lot of life’s pleasures, fireworks could be used safely if parents would supervise their children. But many don’t.

Setting the Ground Rules

We did allow our children to have sparklers. However, we were with them the entire time, and we lit the sparklers for them.

Today that’s probably not cool. But at least, the kids didn’t get hurt.

Another thing that must be kept in mind with fireworks is the fire danger. Weather also plays an important role in safely using fireworks.

My personal suggestion for a safe Fourth is:

Let the professionals do the fireworks while you and your family enjoy the show.

This method is far less expensive, avoids the risk of injury and other problems.

Have a happy and safe Fourth. Remember to say a prayer for those who work to keep us safe and free.

Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net