Freedom, Independence

Today is our friend Andrea's birthday and also it is Independence Day. So it is really noisy out there and the keeper made us come in so we are watching fireworks on tv. It's still pretty noisy.

But we are thinking about all of the fuss with the fireworks and what it means to people other than the tribes make money which is good. But what are we really celebrating? beer? fried chicken? It seems we were closer to it in November, when record numbers of people voted for a change. It seems like we are closer to it when citizens get involved in making this country a more decent, inclusive place for every one, especially the weakest, the most recently arrived, the aged, the youngest child, even the pets. If we could all devote as much energy to one of these causes as we do to our fireworks and crowds and picnics, we would be a great country, worthy of the birthday we celebrate. Also, we always talk about those who "keep our country free". Is it just the military? Not to disrespect the fine idealists serving the country in the military, but that's getting a lot of us off the hook, isn't it? How do we keep this country free? By being active, conscious citizens, willing to break through our individualism and participate in civic process, community organization, whatever it takes to keep improving the quality of our community. Enough said. As you can see, cats have strong feelings about freedom. And what do you all think about Sarah Palin's resignation? Interesting timing wasn't it? Spare us from any more Palin theatrics. Meaow.

The keeper drove downtown to do her reading at the evening liturgy at the Cathedral. It was a swift drive, she said. She drove over Lake Union which was carpeted by boats. She says that you could have jumped from boat to boat they were all so close, and it will take hours for them all to get back home through the Montlake Cut. She said that the 5:30 liturgy was surprisingly incredible. She said MGR preached his heart out about the power of weaknessand grace in our lives, and it seemed to touch many people. Also, a great visiting choir from Seoul, South Korea sang Gospel songs..Steal Away, Precious Lord, unbelievably well. She tried to contain herself, but it was very hard. They were good! So she stepped out on the good foot on the procession out.

The keeper took a few mile walk through the neighborhood before it got too hot, and found a park she didn't know about, but it also had a No Trespassing sign. Also it seemed that Sheridan Heights had all gone to their cabins. It was eerily still.

But the flowers were thriving in spite of the heat and shee found some red poppies still blowing in the warm breeze.