The Fourth of July Hat

THE FOURTH OF JULY HAT We used to celebrate July the Fourth when the kids were young— Till they grew up and moved away and life became far-flung. Yes, once we toasted freedom’s day and shot off big fireworks— Now I sit here in this dark bar surrounded by some jerks. We used to ride our horses on this Independence Day, We barbecued and downed a few and for our nation prayed. Then the show of fountains, Roman candles and Black Cat— Till judges and town laws ruled: “You aren’t allowed to do that!” Slowly the country lost its way and now it seems insane— Shredding our constitution with rights of eminent domain. Now Addie’s gone and I’m alone to tend to this old spread, Till slickers come and crowd me off and I’m just left for dead. Now holidays don’t mean too much and good times just don’t last, I wonder if folks understand sacrifices of our past? So on this Fourth I watch fireworks upon a bar room screen, My wrinkled skin like leather now, but oh, what I have seen… They’re playing our nation’s anthem and I’m sure liking that, When some young tough rudely yells: “Cowboy, I can’t see through your hat!” But I feel a bit stubborn and cling to what I have left And sit there till he says, “Old man, are you a little deaf?” Slowly, I take that hat off, and feel for something inside— Then put on an old folded army cap with deep love and pride. Then as the last fireworks fade, and loud rockets burst and whir— That young man shakes my hand and says, “Happy Fourth of July, sir.”