The big holidays always bring on the same old wondrous feelings! For the Fourth? Nostalgia comes to the forefront, calling forth feelings of kinship, friendship, love of country, and brotherhood. Run “Old Glory” up high and bring on the fireworks!
 The Fourth of July nearly supersedes Christmas, (nearly). Not to sound overly religious, God still takes precedence over anything or anyone else. In no small part because He’s the best listener I’ve ever run up on (sometimes He even answers!). Naturally family, friends, love of country are right up there, in the pantheon of fundamental things I hold dear.
 Even more so at this stage in life (the countries and mine) a feeling of “Brotherhood” has matured. It holds an (almost) religious feeling for me and some folks I know (not that this makes me special, I’m not).
 There are some people out there who know exactly what I mean. They share a bond that time and distance doesn’t touch. The Fourth of July is a paramount celebration for many of them too.
 Along with the BBQ’s and beer, friends and family get togethers, all the myriad leisure activities we all enjoy, comes feelings often hidden away. A patriotism colored by a tinge of nostalgia perhaps, again reaffirms that brotherhood. Particularly during this time of year. A host of emotions that border on kinship, comes pushing unbeckoned (sometimes unwanted) up from their hearts and memories.
 Sure, you may see them most anytime of the year (if you’re really looking). But over this weekend, they’ll be out there among you everywhere! Outwardly appearing to be no more than ordinary citizens in the midst of all the celebrating.
 But likely as not, they’ll be doing their real “celebrating” with a level of quietude many of you would not even recognize, let alone glimpse. They’ll often stand alone, in the midst of the crowd. Might be two or three standing together here an’ there? But they’re often alone, irregardless of who’s nearby.
 You might just recognize them by some small symbol? An outward display of their membership in that “Brotherhood”. A small flag on a lapel or vest. Perhaps a ribbon, medal or patch of some type occupying a particular spot on their garments.
 But if you approach closer? You may glimpse something else. Something behind the eyes of these individuals. Thankfully, most of you won’t recognize it. But the ones of whom I write will know it, from a distance. Even if it’s during the twilight of the days celebrations.
 Among them there is a certain circumspection in recognition and acknowledgment, should they greet one another. Often boisterous with greetings among themselves, their salutations may appear flamboyant (or very subdued). Handshakes always firm (bear hugs optional) invariably accompanied by a clarity of gaze, eye to eye. The bond, the brotherhood, is recognized, renewed, sustained.
 Our flag holds a special place of reverence among these brothers (and sisters). The appearance of it or the sound of the national anthem may (should) bring you to your feet. But it will bring them to attention!
 Fireworks pyrotechnics will draw your rapt attention as you gaze skyward. For some of these folks it may draw a wince, and a quick look around. Ingrained, “Situational Awareness” (never mind, you won’t feel it) has taken over. Every sense alert, momentarily (involuntarily) heightened. A common trait for this brotherhood, the older among them better able to curb it’s outward manifestation.
 Like you, they may enjoy the fireworks? And yet some little shiver, that “hair up on the back of the neck”, that slightly embarrassed glance around? That comes from a place most of us have never been.
 A former paratrooper, I served during the ”Vietnam Era”, stationed in Panama, not “in country” (Vietnam). So I consider myself barely a member of this “Brotherhood”.
 I have been privileged to know many who’ve served there, and many others from WW II to the current conflicts. Down through the years I’ve gotten to know and talked at length, with more of these folks than I care to count.
 So during this holiday as I wander amongst the celebratory crowds? I will stand beside, behind, or simply nearby people belonging to that brotherhood. And like you, while the flag waves or the anthem plays, should my gaze fall upon a face where tears roll?
  Some words from my friend Harry (genuine American Hero) will spring to mind. In referring to his “Brothers” needing “quiet times”. He said, “Sometimes Just Bein’ There, is enough, ya know? No words needed....”
 I Don’t Know About You..., I’ll keep quiet, and hope no one notices my silent tears.
 Cal Teeple, often located three stools down is founder of the Observational Cogitation Consortium. Found at: www.wayneindependent.com/cal Or At: calteeple@gmail.com He may be ignored, accosted or contacted at all three.