My writing group this week's assignment was to write something about 4th of July celebrations. In view of this year's "events" surrounding it as well as in the midst of it, I read the following to the group: *One Common Denominator* (the number below the line in a common fraction) I once knew a guy with numerous afflictions They were the numerators in his various addictions He spent many years in one pursuit or another Liquor and drugs and women he found Were distractions—he could go no further Toward the happiness for which he was searching. One day he stopped and assessed his predicament He listed the failed relationships in his life, there were many! It came to him after counting them all— There was one common factor he had to take in: The Common Denominator he found—was Him! I once knew a world that was friendly, I thought It would always be so; I was young then and Trusted adults and the lessons they taught. I believed them and was never afraid for my life As I grew up attending my lessons in school. I sang the Anthem and saluted the flag of our nation And watched fireworks on the 4th, what great celebrations. I wonder as I think of the most recent mass shooting If the math calculation holds true in this case And what the Common Denominator could be I’m awaiting to see if a solution be found Before the end of our race. Milan Hamilton July 7, 2022