The Day After the Fireworks

Yesterday, America celebrated the most important milestone in our country's history -- 250 years of American Independence.

“With a single sheet of parchment and 56 signatures, America began the greatest political journey in human history,” said President Trump of this momentous anniversary.

At Epiphany Ranch here in East Texas -- we celebrated with flags waving proudly. Over 35 of us enjoyed all kinds of games, delicious food and all so grateful to celebrate the red, white and blue!

And, then, there were the fireworks that painted the night sky with brilliant colors.

Oh how amazing to be here in BIG SKY country where stars shine as bright as the bottle rockets, sparklers and Roman candles.

Delicious food loaded the tables with hamburgers, hot dogs, salads, chips and queso, watermelon, homemade desserts (You're welcome, Larry -- I made his favorite cake -- Carrot Cake) and enough yummy food to feed an army!

Payton Wallace, my grandson, even had an electronic bronco horse to test the talents of his friends -- I still think he was the honorary champ! All was such great fun for all!

Last year, Carl and I spent the Fourth of July here. We laughed until our sides hurt, rode four-wheelers, watched those fishing in the 7-acre pond and enjoying the kayaks and made memories we'll treasure forever.

BUT TODAY -- the day after -- actually the year after.....
My heart remembers another story.

One year ago, as fireworks faded and the skies grew quiet, devastating floodwaters along the Guadalupe River forever changed the lives of so many Texas families.

A beloved girls' camp -- Camp Mystic -- that had echoed with laughter, canoe races, horseback rides, campfire songs, and riverside prayers since 1926 -- suddenly became a place of unimaginable heartbreak.

Parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends still carry a grief few of us can fully comprehend.

We don't remember to reopen wounds.
We remember because love never forgets.

The Bible gently reminds us, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." (Romans 12:15)

Even a year later, our prayers continue.
We pray for comfort where there is still emptiness.
We pray for strength where hearts still ache.

We pray that God's promise remains true: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18)

As we continue celebrating the freedoms we've been given, may we also be people who carry one another's burdens. Joy and compassion are not opposites -- they often walk hand in hand.

Today, let's thank God for the blessings of freedom.

And let's quietly remember those whose tears still fall after the fireworks have faded.

May His peace surround every grieving heart, and may His hope continue to shine -- even after the darkest storm.