As the Fourth of July came to a close, TNT booth workers across the country lit off one last sparkler to commemorate their time, their service, and the memories they'll never forget.
The grieving process began early on Wednesday, July 5th; the wailing of the booth workers carried into the early morning as they packed their belongings. The transition is not easy this year. In fact, it's never been easy, but that doesn't prepare the TNT booth workers for the jarring reality of July 5th.
The group of weary booth workers no longer find their home in the parking lots of America, but rather, they must move back into the suburbs where they are welcomed by their responsibilities of bringing Gatorades and sunflower seeds to children's baseball games.
Just as their responsibilities change, so too does their status. These booth workers are no longer revered for their knowledge of fireworks, but instead pushed aside and hushed by society. What was once a helpful tip about "Fairy Wands" vs. "Rainbow Stix", is now nothing more than an annoying lecture from a 52-year-old man. Their expertise is null and void.
"I used to think life was all about knowing which fireworks made for the best finales, whether or not a 'Mighty Sword' was worth the price, or how impressive the 'Dino Egg Nest' was. Now, on July 5th, I see life for what it really is: a firework with a bum wick," said one local worker.
When asked to elaborate, the man couldn't find the words. It was too painful. He smiled through the sadness, hopped in his GMC truck and drove off.
Until next year, TNT Fireworks booth workers.