July 4th Juxtaposition

First of all I need to thank our founding fathers for creating a country where we can be free to enjoy all that life has to offer. Then I have to thank my lucky stars for providing the images that greeted me this morning at the beach.

To the east, the rising sun looked like a candle flame flaring out of the top of that strange columnar cloud.  

To the west the full moon was still adorning the sky before it slowly crept below the western horizon. 

I didn't know whether to look east or west, either view was a stunning reminder of the greatness we are surrounded by if we only take the time to look and to appreciate every little nuance. Happy and joyful Independence Day!