During the Fourth of July celebrations, I pulled into my favorite stomping grounds — Dairy Queen on Highway 305 in Poulsbo — to park and watch the fireworks.

I have done this for years: buy a frozen treat, park, and walk to the church sidewalk across the street to watch the fireworks. This time, I was met by a young lady who informed me that to park in the lot was now $5 per car. So, I left the premises.

After parking elsewhere for free, I found myself quite angry about this scenario; after all, I had spent $21 at this establishment just that week. After some time, I was able to rationalize that the restaurant had every right to charge for the use of the commercial property which they own. It just seemed that by offering free parking for this one hour or so, it would be a nice way of giving back to their patrons and members of the community. I was also able to rationalize that I, as a consumer, have every right to decide where I wish to spend (or not to spend) my money. OK, rant over.

In 1776, the citizens of the 13 colonies formally decided to leave the rule of the British Crown. What courage, determination and self-sacrifice they possessed! I am still so humbled by their accomplishment.

Freedom isn’t free. In some places, neither is the parking necessary to participate in the celebration of that hard-won freedom.

Paula Wallin Hubbard

Poulsbo