Twas the morning of my favorite day in our town
The 4th of July—in the best town around!

As the sun snuck its nose through a painting of clouds
This is the story I read to the crowd …

I was at the park early—half after seven
Sometimes I think I’m just living in heaven

__________

In the blink of an eye there ’rose such a clatter
I hopped off my bike to see what was the matter

When what to my wondering eyes did appear
A whole ton of runners all dressed in their gear!

It seemed the whole town was here at the race!
You could just see the joy on everyone’s face!

It was one giant party—3,000, I’d say
All lining up for a race on this day!

They all knew each other—from churches and schools
From boy scouts, and little league, camps and car pools!

Neighbors and friends, kids every age
Dads pushing strollers was clearly the rage!

Generations of families were out there as one
And the happiest dogs were all jacked up to run

The place was just buzzing—the wildest scene
As the “Palisades Song” pumped things up on the screen!

The doctors from St. John’s—they were there, too
How selfless of them—a giant thank you!

I just love the moment in our town each year
When the runners take off to a thunderous cheer

So where is the magic? What makes this so great?
Why do 3,000 show up at this gate?

I’d guess that it’s not in the run—or the pace
It’s not where you finish in this-or-that place

The joy, the sweet joy we all feel on this day
Money can’t buy—no price you can pay

It’s belonging to something—a sense that you’re home
That no matter what—you’re not alone

Your neighbors and friends—they’re running with you
They’re cheering you on for the great things you do

My hope for you—half way ’long your race
You find where the most wonderful quiet takes place

You run under the trees that blanket our town
By homes of great families—sprinkled around

And you take in a breath—right where you are
And give thanks that you caught one lucky star

Just feel the whole town running right by your side
A lifetime of friends will be on your ride

To give you that little bit more every day
That little bit more—makes life a ballet

Dream, as you run, of what you most treasure
For moments, like these—you’ll hold close forever

And when you cross that line—let out a big cheer
To everything, everything you hold so dear

A cheer to so many who’ve long passed away
Who gave us the freedoms we have on this day

To everything, everything great about you
To the love in your heart—and the good that you do

When you cross that line, no matter your place
I promise, my friend, you won the race!