Independence Day

    Red as the blood shed to protect our precious country. White as the pureness of a nation newly born. Blue as the endless skies stretching over the golden plains.

    The American flag ripples gently, high above the heads of passerby, waving its salute to the land it represents. There it stands, day after day, proclaiming its message to all: “God Bless America”.

    Today, we celebrate fallen soldiers who knowingly and willingly gave up their lives in horrendous ways so that we, Americans, can maintain our freedom. There are many who are out on the fields, suffering mentally and physically, but yet somehow glad in the back of their mind, knowing that their pain will benefit the lives of their people.

    Somehow, at some point in time, this day has lost its representation of hope and loyalty, and instead been twisted into a holiday during which Americans sleep in, enjoy a hamburger cookout, and then watch explosions into the night. So many Americans don’t take the time of day to close their eyes, thank their Lord and Savior for giving them the chance to live this very day, and to pay their respects to the souls lost in the heat of battle.

    Dear Father, thank you for guiding our ancestors to this continent. Thank you for giving us the chance to be free from religious oppression, and thank you for all the many wonderful leaders you’ve given to guide us to where we are today.

    Help us to keep from straying from the path our forefathers and foremothers laid out for us. Help us to be true Americans. Let our very veins pump red, white, and blue throughout our body, mind, and heart.

    Amen.

    God bless you, America.