A rained-out July 4th!?
This July 4th, 2023, close to the time of fireworks, the Albany NY skies opened up with lots of thunder & lightning along with a very heavy downpour. It was so intense, the annual Fireworks Show at Empire State Plaza (sponsored each year by Price Chopper/Market 32) was cancelled and rescheduled for the following night. Disappointing & frustrating, a bummer, on a celebrated very-outdoors summer day like this!
The Baal Shem Tov taught there’s something to be learned from everything we experience. What’s the takeaway, life lesson, a meaningful message?
a) For one it reminds us that celebration and the quality of it, isn’t (or shouldn’t) determined by external stimuli like fireworks or a sunny nice day for a BBQ. Yes, such things help, they enhance and enrich and allow for more to do and more ways to enjoy it, not that weather problems aren’t majorly frustrating but they aren’t make-it-or-break it. A rained-out (or IN!) July 4th reminds us that true celebration is within, and isn’t dampened or diminished by rain and the inability to do XY or Z.
b) Somehow, even with drizzle & mist after the downpour, amateur fireworks kept popping up around town. Not speaking to safety of it, but to the undeterred spirit, never washed out, determined whatever circumstances. It’s not the official recommendation, but some make it work! It brings to mind Chabad’s extreme custom of only eating in the Sukkah even if it rains or pours.
c) Obviously, timing is a big issue with our attitude towards rain, but everyone knows that plentiful & abundant (but not overwhelming) rain (even as we at times wish for it “to come back another day”) is a huge & very necessary blessing. Water is source for all living things!
d) One more thing about a rained-out July 4th teaches us a lesson about guilt. Some party problems we blame on ourselves, but weather is something everyone (even the party host) realizes is beyond his/her control & not their fault. It’s something we deal with guilt-free – and is probably a healthier way to deal with most issues.
PS: The Price Chopper/Market 32 sponsored grand July 4th fireworks was rescheduled for the next night – July 5th 2023 – and Raizy drove down with our younger girls to see it. Tradition!