07/05/2026
Yesterday offered a reminder that is easy to lose in the pace of everyday life.
Watching the Big Bay Boom, the West Coast’s largest fireworks display, from the ocean was truly breathtaking. The sky lit up in color, reflecting across the water, with the Naval base and city skyline in the distance. It was a powerful backdrop for celebrating America’s 250th birthday and reflecting on the freedoms that bring people together.
What stood out most was the shared experience. Thousands gathered from every walk of life, united under one sky. For a brief moment, differences faded, strangers connected, and there was a collective sense of wonder and gratitude. It was a beautiful reminder that, despite everything happening in the world, we have far more that unites us than divides us.
In the middle of busy lives and constant demands, moments like these matter. They highlight the importance of pausing, being present, and appreciating time with the people who matter most. Not because life slows down, but because we choose to step into it fully when we can.
In the work many of us do, especially supporting individuals with special needs and those who rely on HCBS services, freedom also has a very real and personal meaning. It is found in advocacy, in ensuring voices are heard, and in standing together to protect the supports that allow people to live with dignity and independence. Even when systems feel uncertain or under pressure, coming together in numbers has always been where change begins. Looking back at how far we have come reminds us that progress is possible, and collective voices matter.
Last night also carried a deeply personal reminder of that truth. My son, Cole, who has a developmental disability, experienced the beauty of the celebration alongside everyone else. With the right supports, he and many others, are able to fully participate in their communities, share in these moments, and belong in spaces that bring people together. These experiences become grounding reminders we carry forward, long after the lights fade and everyday routines return.
Happy 250th Birthday, America. Here is to freedom, community, advocacy, and the moments that bring us all back to what matters most. Supporting one another and strengthening our sense of community.
Hope you all had a great 4th of July! What we experienced last night as nothing short of beautiful.