I’m on the road by 4:45 a.m. every day. Driving through Mechanic Falls during that early, almost-deserted, time of the day is peaceful in itself – a quiet car, a soothing first cup of coffee. But a couple of weeks ago, the town of Mechanic Falls put up U.S. flags all along Route 121.

I see them on both sides of Pleasant Street. They go around the mill corner and then line Lewiston Street.

I’ve seen them on dark, rainy mornings when my spirits were lifted, even in the drizzly gloom. On beautiful days, when the sky promises an exquisite, rose sunrise, they are equally inspiring. And, just recently, when the cold night air reacted with warmer ground and water temperatures, producing a foggy mist hovering over the downtown area, seeing the flags through that slightly-veiled shroud of almost-dawn, filled me with astonishing pride. Pride in my small town, my wonderful state, my great country, and in the brave men and women who are putting their lives on the line every day to help keep all we have safe.

It’s amazing how something as simple as a small piece of red, white and blue fabric, gently waving in the early morning light, can affect one’s thoughts and senses so strongly.

Nina Stimson, Mechanic Falls