I closely observed them

Groups of two, three, four,
and so on, in a variety of
interesting shapes and sizes

Like families…
Some groups were secluded,
while others gathered close

I smiled, as they seemed
to act out stories
encouraging imagination

And play in childhood
games of hide-and-seek,
chase, and charades

Individuals also
stood on the outskirts,
no apparent family

Once noticed and invited,
They happily joined
the ongoing festivities

They are all part of the same sky

Suddenly, the groups
converged, and a
storm began to brew

Disagreements tossed
like lightning bolts
Grumblings rolled
into thunder claps

Until the rain began to fall-
Cleansing rain, like tears
quietly saying, I’m sorry

Repairing and renewing,
returning to their unique front
with restored compassion

Like the peace following a
thunderstorm, may we allow
our tears to cleanse our hearts

Happy 250th birthday, America! May we return to the strength found in compassion. ❤️🤍💙🕊️