My wife and I enjoy seeing fireworks.  The dogs, not so much!  Tinker, our eldest schnauzer,  has her “Thunder Shirt,” that provides some comfort around noisy storms and loud noises.  Typically, we go back home, to Indiana, for the 4th of July, but we went early this year.  We’re trying to make plans for here in Portland, but do not want the hassle of going downtown for the Blues Festival.  We did that two years ago, for our first Fourth in Portland, as both of our employers were sponsors of the event.  Since I’m now retired and my wife now works for the competition, it would not be appropriate for us to attend.

We did not see any fireworks at the ballpark last week, but between Epcot, Greek Festival, Navy Pier, Padre Island, Galveston, Paris, Conner Prairie, Rome, and Sky Concerts we’ve certainly seen our share of great firework displays.  My wife teases me about my lack of hearing, whether that be physical or mental.  I blame it on the rock concerts and loud fireworks that I’ve had the pleasure of watching through the years.  I hope this year is no exception.

Fireworks

.

I don’t hear well,
What did you say?
Sometimes I get it,
But there’s a delay.
.
Could you repeat that?
I’ve said too many times.
Like trying to communicate,
With one of those mimes.
.
Sometimes when I listen,
It just isn’t clear.
Like a firecracker exploded,
Right next to my ear.
.
Am I getting old?
Have grown inattentive?
My undivided interest,
Is the least I can give.
.
It’s not intentional,
I Love You too much.
I value your words,
And crave your touch.
.
It’s annoying to you,
And with that short fuse.
I don’t mean to set you off,
Or your patience abuse.

.

What did you say?
I just couldn’t hear.
There was a loud bang,
Followed by a cheer.

.

Please say that again,
When the ringing clears.
Here’s my new promise:
To lend you my ears.

.

Copyright 2003 Johnstonwrites.com