Looking to our Flag

The American Flag has always stirred something inside me.  Even as a child, I can remember staring at the flag against a bright blue sky and feeling...well, patriotic.  Grandfathers on both sides of my family have served and fought in wars.  As 9/11 approaches I have really been pondering what good I have done for my country.  Although, I am not a soldier, do not carry a gun, or risk my life to defend, honor and uphold God and country... I am making a difference.  One child at a time.  One life at a time.  It is my hope that my gratitude bleeds over into all those I come in contact with.  With all the war, sadness and depression in this world there is much to be thankful for.  That is where Light comes in.  In opposition to war is peace.  Joy in your heart.  Gratitude to a soldier.  It is so hard for me not to hug a soldier in uniform!  When I see them in the store I get a lump in my throat.  My desire is so strong to do MORE.  Then I remember that the hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.  Mothers, do not doubt your ability to raise good people.  The world needs them in every capacity.  Soldiers, teachers, workers, builders, preachers, people who inspire and uplift this weary world.  And everyone of them has a Mother.  Be kind to your children.  Be loving to your spouse.  Share a smile with a stranger.  We can make a difference.  By spreading light.  I encourage you to read, study and pray how you can bless the lives of those around you.  I still pray for those whose lives changed on 9/11.  All of us were changed, but some lost everything.  I think about them nearly every day.  So many lives lost.  Our soldiers continue to give their lives... let us give them hope.  Be the change YOU wish to see in the world.  It all starts with you.  As for me.... well.  My colors are flying high and free thanks to those who DO defend our freedom.  May God bless them all.  Wherever they may be.  Thank you.  Freedom is never free.

If you find the chance, look up Operation Bandanas.  It is a non-profit organization that sends bandanas to the soldiers deployed all over the world with Psalm 91 on them.  Soldiers wear these beneath their helmets, and many simply fold them and keep them in the pocket over their heart.  It is a poignant reminder that God is watching over us all.  If you are able to make a contribution it is greatly appreciated.

Psalm 91

 1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

 2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

 3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, andfrom the noisome pestilence.

 4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

 5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

 6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for thedestruction that wasteth at noonday.

 7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

 8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

 9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

 10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

 11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

 12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

 13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

 14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

 15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

 16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.