June is Almost Gone by Susan Aylworth

Hard to believe, but we've almost put June behind us and we're looking down the week at July. July! What images that word conjures! First I think of flags and fireworks and picnics in the park. Then my thought goes deeper as I consider what my country means to me.

Last month, Roger and I checked a couple of items off our bucket lists. We had planned a visit to Hawaii for our 50th anniversary in June of 2020, but a global pandemic put an end to that. Two years later, we made it! For both of us, a necessary part of that trip was a pilgrimage to Pearl Harbor. 

Both our fathers fought in the Pacific during the second world war and my dad stationed briefly in the islands. Born in Arizona, I also connect to the ship that sits where it landed on that "date that will live in infamy" 80 years ago. 

We first paid homage there, at the USS Arizona, remembering the beginning of our country's involvement in WW II and honoring the young men who still rest in that hallowed place. 

We continued to the decks of the USS Missouri where representatives of imperial Japan formally surrendered and all parties signed peace accords. A large gold medallion marks the exact spot.

During this year when war in Europe again threatens the world's fragile stability, we feel sacred connection to all monuments honoring peace. 

Our nation isn't perfect. We're all too aware of the deep disagreements that threaten our own stability. But as America celebrates its 246th year, we gratefully honor the peaceful connections we all share. 

When fireworks light this year's skies, we'll be celebrating with a son and his family, and we will be thinking of the peace and freedom we all enjoy, still shining as brightly as the those sparkling lights. Happy Birthday, America! 

Susan Aylworth is the author of more than 20 novels. Over the Rainbow, a prequel to the Rainbow Rock Romances, is available free to everyone who subscribes to her newsletter on her website: susanaylworthauthor.com. Contact her on her Facebook author page or via susan.aylworth.author@gmail.com or join her on Twitter @Susan Aylworth.