Poem: The Fourth of July

By Anyla McDonald The Black Lens

In the heart of July beneath the sun’s glow,

A tale unfolds, as old as the winds blow,

Fourth of the month, a dream set to rise,

Yet here we stand, with our own painted skies.

Fireworks burst like stories untold,

In colors of freedom, both vibrant and bold.

Yet as we celebrate, with laughter and cheer,

Echoes of struggle still whisper near.

For this day of independence rings different for me,

A duality woven in history’s tapestry.

While others toast to the liberty won,

We recall the battles that still must be done.

Our ancestors marched with hope in their eyes,

Yearning for justice beneath wide-open skies.

Chains once unbroken, now gifts in our hand,

Their sacrifices have helped shape this land.

As grills sizzle sweet with the smell of the day,

We gather like kin, in the warmth of the fray.

Songs of our heritage weave through the heat,

In rhythm and spirit, our hearts skip a beat.

The flag waves high, stitched with care,

A symbol of pride, yet, is it really fair?

For as we wave banners in bright shades of red,

Remember the stories of those long since dead.

Let’s dance in the joy of both past and today,

Embrace all the layers in the festive display.

For freedom is more than a singular shout,

It’s the hope that unites, despite lingering doubt.

Together we rise, under bright sparking lights,

With love as our weapon, we fight the good fights.

On this Fourth of July, we honor the blend,

Of struggle and triumph, our spirits transcend.

So here’s to the laughter, tears, and the pride,

For all that we’ve built, and those who’ve died.

As the night sky sparkles with each fiery bloom,

We celebrate history, in unity’s room.

Let not this day simply come and then fade,

But remember the journey, the price that we paid.

For the spirit of freedom belongs to us all,

As we rise hand in hand, together we stand tall.