We sat in the sunshine in front of George’s gallery on Main Street in Cambridge and watched the Memorial Day Parade go by. George and Jon always with their cameras ready and Donna, like a movie star, with her sketch pad and pen, drawing the parade the was she sees it. Ron, who makes small, often whimsical sculptures from any recycled paper product, shows his work in Georges, Ginofor Gallery.
There’s something so easy and delightful about watching a small town parade. You don’t have to get there early, or fight for a spot to see the parade. Nothing is so spectacular that you’re afraid you might miss it. It doesn’t overwhelm or enchant, but it is charming. The people marching in the parade throw candy, cheese (from the Cabot Cheese truck) and wildflower seeds (from a local church). And you’re sure to see someone you know, riding in an old car, playing in the marching band, leading a horse, or sitting on the sidewalk watching.
I’m not sure why so many people show up for these parades (this one lasted about a half hour), they seem so outdated. There were a couple of Veterans groups in the parade, but I think it’s more about community. I think that’s why I go, because enough people still find it important enough to do. And because it’s a way of feeling like part of the community. A way of belonging.
I love the feel of your parade. I wish ours gave me a similar feeling, but our community is very political, divided. Especially last year, with Mitt Romney marching on July 4th (he has a shorefront home in our town). And one of our state senators also lives in our town and he marches in every parade. People cheer or boo. The Republicans march. The Democrats march. And people cheer or boo. I don’t even go any more.
eewww Becky, that sounds awful. Sounds like a political rally, not a parade.
I think it speaks for the national discourse unfortunately. There are plenty of times to get political, but a parade should be a celebration, a community celebration, as you described.