A few years old, but still fighting!!!
While I hate the way we got into this war, I am touched by the courage, honor, and love of country that I’ve seen thrive from our soldiers. Growing up in Virginia, just outside of Washington DC, I always felt more patriotic then most. I was proud to know that I was living in the most powerful city in the world! Every time I went on a field trip to or drove by the Capital/ White House I would gaze mesmerized by the magnitude, history, and spirit of what those buildings represented and how fortunate I was to live in their midst. I was amazed how day in and day out decisions were made, as casually as any other, which would ripple out across the world.
As you probably already knew, I spent the last few years working on political campaigns all over the country. I wasn’t happy with the direction of this country so I felt compelled to try and change it. While Election Day didn’t go the way I had hoped, I was blessed to discover that the real spirit of America is alive and well and isn’t confined to Washington DC. The real spirit of America is being channeled by young people across this country, mostly from small towns and poor inner cities.
In my journeys, I’ve been humbled to meet so many smart, able-bodied young men and women who volunteered to join our Military and serve overseas. “My country needed me” was the only answer they’d give me as I struggled to make sense of their choice in life. These brave soldiers never gave it another thought.
Whether or not they agreed with the war, all of these exceptional young people put our well being ahead of theirs. They love their families and friends just as much as I love mine. They have dreams and ambitions just as I do; yet, they are willing to sacrifice IT ALL simply to protect and serve the greater good. When I think about the full magnitude of their service I’m embarrassed by how little I’ve done.
While my experiences pale in comparison to theirs, I feel obligated to honor their memory as best I can. I hope you will join me in honoring their bravery, love, and service in our thoughts and prayers not just on the 4th of July but everyday.
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