Run Like Hell

Flick the flame on in the darkened night.
Close in on the wick until you're just about there.
Count to three.
One. Two. Three.
Run like hell.
The wick is caught and sparks fly as the flame races toward ignition.
A loud pop like a bomb going off rings in your ears.
A spark flies into the night sky, climbing higher to the stars.
Another pop and color is falling overhead.
Crackles of gunpowder hitting sparks echo through the hills.
Thuds of empty shells hit the wet grass.
The pitter patter of rain droplets hit your skin.
Another loaded shell is dropped into the barrel.
The lighter is positioned and flickered awake.
One. Two. Three.
Run like hell.
Two shots fly toward the sky and explode with an array of colors.
The barrel tips over.
Screams and laughter fill your ears as sparks and explosions whiz past you.
The rain droplets take out the remaining sparks.
You run like hell out of the downpour and into the garage where it's dry.
People are scurrying around to save the food and fun.
People are laughing and smiling all around you.
Happy Independence Day.