Independence Day 2011
Feeling patriotic and proud to be an American is a normal attitude for me, but this 4th of July, our Day of Independence, the emotions are even closer to my heart. This year I have spent two weeks in Boston and New York City – two of our oldest cities – where so many historical places exist and events occurred that in some way relate to the birth of our country 235 years ago. For this reason it is extremely easy to feel a heightened sense of patriotism. Adding to the emotion is touring the memorial site where a recent tragedy for our Nation unified US citizens no matter where they were or who they were. Viewing the NY site of the September 11, 2001 attacks was a profoundly moving experience. Talking to resident New Yorkers who saw the events unfold and remember it as if it was yesterday is something I will never forget.
Names of those lost in the attacks
World Trade Center site with Freedom Tower in process
So for everyone who calls the United States home, no matter where you are, I wish you a Happy 4th of July! Celebrate the freedom we have in this great country! And somewhere in the midst whisper a thanks for those long ago men and women who made it happen, and mutter a prayer for those who continue to sacrifice for our liberty and uphold our ideals. For those who are not American, do the same! You may not know the exact day of your country’s birth but pride in one’s nation is a universal sensibility based on the knowledge of our history and thankfulness for the men and women on down through the centuries who fight and serve for us.
Taken by me on June 26, 2011
God Bless America
words and music by Irving Berlin
While the storm clouds gather far across the sea,
Let us swear allegiance to a land that’s free,
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair,
As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer.
God Bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Thru the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America, My home sweet home.
Star Spangled Banner
“In Defense of Fort Henry”
lyrics by Francis Scott Key, 1812
Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thru the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
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?
For complete lyrics and history visit HERE
