Celebrating Liberty and Legacy

As I think about the gift of citizenship in these United States of America on this 250th birthday of our great nation, I am in awe of the blessings that have been bestowed upon us by our Heavenly Father. Across this world, even as others curse the policies and politicians, people long for the freedoms we take for granted each day. America still stands as a beacon of liberty, resting on a legacy of sacrifice of hundreds of thousands of brave souls who gave everything for the ideals on which our country stands. Today we remember, we celebrate, and we give thanks.

A dear friend of mine recently completed her study and passed her citizenship test. This is her first July 4th as a full-fledged citizen of the United States of America. What a proud accomplishment.

Today, I dedicate this blog to Gabi.

I posted this poem several years ago, but it seems appropriate for this 250th birthday celebration.

Happy Birthday, America!

I AM OLD GLORY

I am Old Glory.

For more than two centuries I have flown over this nation,

Photo by Andrew Ruiz, Unsplash

crowning its accomplishments and supporting its endeavors.

I have watched as divisions attacked and

I have swelled with gratitude

as the principles of freedom and unity

were restored.

I have flown over the people in war

and in peace,

and I have proudly waved

as the banner of liberty.

Soldiers have fought and died

in my shadow.

Mothers have cried and fathers have borne

the losses that were required

to keep me aloft.

I am Old Glory.

Though not perfect,

I represent the perfect principles

upon which this nation,

the United States of America,

was founded and upon which

it has prospered and grown.

Don’t worship me,

but stand firm in the defense of liberty,

of justice, of equality, and righteousness.

Only a just people,

only a people attuned to right,

only a people willing to sacrifice comfort for good and

self-gratification for service

can keep me flying.

I am Old Glory.

I am Old Glory.

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord;" (Psalm 33:12, KJV)