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New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
Admire John McPhee, Bill Bryson, David Remnick, Thomas Merton, Richard Rohr and James Martin (and most open and curious minds)

2.7.04

Light the Skies!

Let me see if I can give you the Xerxes recipe for a splendid Fourth.

Always start the day with a full reading of the Declaration of Independence. The New York Times publishes a complete facsimile version. It is a document seldom read through for content and it is a mighty worthwhile thing to do. To think of Jefferson, Adams and other contributors confecting this document is to reflect upon the historical context of the time in which it was drafted. But the true accomplishment of the Declaration of Independence is how the universal political maxims expounded upon therein have stood the test of time.

Meals should be taken out of doors if possible. American Embassies overseas open their doors on the Fourth to any and all on this day (security ever watchful). They offer hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad and ice cream accompanied by American beer and wine. We could all do worse than follow their example.

A baseball game is a good diversion, water sport always a hit with kids, perhaps a parade and if you are truly lucky a concert will be available in your area to conclude the day. Any activity to bring you into contact with fellow celebrants should bring some reward.

As depicted below, the only way to end the evening is with massive booming and flashing fireworks. If your town doesn't have them then join those packed in the Esplanade in Boston, along the East River in New York or on the Mall in D.C. on television for a fitting end to our National DAY. (May George Plimpton Rest in Peace, see below)

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