4TH: The sound of peaceful noise

As I lay down to sleep Monday night the sounds of the continuing celebration of American independence rang in my ears. Not the echoes of the fantastic fireworks display held over the lake, (thanks Coeur d'Alene!) but the report of countless rockets and crackers exploding throughout the city.

Some rang from a distance, while others blasted down at the corner or even closer. I remembered the words of my neighbor from earlier in the day; he was complaining of all the noise throughout the weekend, that people lost the courtesy to remember that some folks wanted quiet.

I could have jumped on board with negative thoughts. I mean it was 11:30 at night, and I was trying to get to sleep. I chose to turn my thoughts to gratitude; gratitude that I live where I do, Coeur d'Alene, United States of America, not in one of the many eastern nations in the tumultuous uproar of violent political change; or Mexico with violence of drug cartels reaching into my neighborhood. The noise outside did not force me to cower in a hidey hole hoping that some stray bullet wouldn't come whizzing through a wall and hit me or someone I love. Or, was I fearful that armed men would kick in my door intent on mayhem.

I am safe and relaxed.

Yea it was a little noisy, but I fell asleep in gratitude that this was the sound of celebration. We the People celebrating 235 years of independence and democracy!

God "Blesses" America!

JIM TURNER

Coeur d'Alene