This is the evening of the 4th. Our group has a number of vets in it. Before dinner a retired Army Air Corp. Colonel, read the declaration of independence. Our ex Fire chief 4 year Marine grunt in Korea read Patrick Henry's speech which has the quotation "Give me Liberty or Give me Death". some discussion of what the founding of this country meant ensued. We all (about 30 of us) pledged allegiance to the Flag.
After dinner, the newest members of our group came by. The man is a Cuban accountant who came ashore (dry foot) via a small boat escaping from Cuba, a little than less than a year ago. His wife has recently entered the US via Mexico. There was considerable payment which was supported by several members of our group to get her here. They both had red/white/blue stripes on their cheeks--USA Red White and Blue Bandanas on their heads, They had on USA flag patriotic Shirts, with blue shorts. They both have been working for one of the group, who owns a number of houses--cleaning, painting, preparing etc--any labor for $10 an hour. Not unusual for them to work 6 days a week 12 hours a day. The landlord had arranged for them to rent a house on the bayou. They have not had one dime of welfare--got social security cards and pay the taxes.
Their 12 year old daughter is next to come--as they save the money to get her here from Cuba where she lives with her grandparents. They are so enthusiastic about coming to a land of freedom and opportunity. Their English is excellent (both taking classes via internet)--and they sang the Star Spangled banner!
This day was not about fireworks and hot dogs (although this was their first fireworks 4th) It as about why America is a great land, and why we all need to remember our roots and appreciate what we have.
Happy 4th of July to all--and Happy Canada Day (Fête du Canada), belatedly to our Canadian brothers and Sisters.
