Celebrating Independence Day

 

It is interesting that fireworks, a symbol of war, has become a symbol of celebration.

I am of the generation that lived in a time when children were fearful of war and bombs and practiced ducking under desks at school in case of an air raid. I am of the generation that sang numerous patriotic songs in music class during elementary school and proudly pledged allegiance to the flag daily. I am of the generation who had a father who fought in World War II and grew up listening to war stories at bedtime. I am of the generation that feels emotional during a boy scout flag ceremony. I am of the generation that is grateful to God for a country that is free and who takes the phrase seriously, "In God is our Trust". I am of the generation that prays for the rising generationsto hold freedom as a precious gift. I am of the generation that has a son serving in the military and prays for his protection and for his holding to the precious gift of hope in God as he stands for all that is right and good in the world - home, families and religious freedom.

May all generations remember and sing:

"And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there;
O! say does that star-spangled banner yet wave,
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!"

 

" Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation!
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: “In God is our trust;”
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!"