Results tagged “Patriotism”

I don't watch award shows. I used to when I was a kid. It was neat to see all the stars and to try to figure out who would win. But now I am happy reading the day after report. But this is an award show that I would watch on television...if only it were televised.

If you haven't seen the "I Pledge" Video, take a few moments and watch it now. Go ahead, I'll wait....

I found out about this video when my husband forwarded me an article that expressed concern over the references to 'serving' President Obama and over "Obama worship".

I watched this video and I didn't see it the same way as the author of the article. While I am bothered very much by the fact that these people seem to be pledging their allegiance to a person instead of to their country (remember how that worked out for Germany?), I tend to look at the positive side of things.

I wish that more people had pledged to stand behind President Bush instead of attacking him from Day One, but if people are ready to stand up now and take responsibility and reach out to their fellow human being, I say we should not beat a dead horse, but we should look at this as a great leap forward for a better tomorrow.

Many in this nation have become so wrapped up in their own self-importance, that they forget to look out for their neighbors, their friends, people on the street and even for family. Yet, we see when tragedy strikes (be it a tornado, a flood, or a terrorist attack), these same people pull out all the stops to help those affected. Wouldn't it be amazing if we didn't wait for the disaster to strike, but if instead, we each made it a priority each and every day to do something positive in the life of another human being? Can you even begin to imagine the possiblities!

Today at high noon, President Obama steps into history and becomes the 44th President of the United States of America. Not only is this moment historical because of the fact that 1/2 century ago, African Americans were not allowed in 'white' establishments, but it is a moment of hope for our country. A reminder of all that is good in America - the democratic process does work, the people's voice is still heard. It is a testament to the world, that power can change hands, not just from person to person, but from party to party without a shot fired.

I did not vote for Barack Obama. My choice wasn't influenced by his skin color, but by my concern over his lack of experience, the people he surrounded himself with, the message he was taught in church, and my concern over his naivete on how to handle other world leaders. But as the new President of our country, I will do all I can to support him (as long as it doesn't conflict with my moral values and that would be true of any President).

My mom introduced me to some of the best actors when I was growing up - John Wayne, Bob Hope, Jimmy Stewart, Maureen O'Hara, and more. These actors weren't just better at their profession than many actors and actresses are today, but they were real people who didn't jump up on a pedastal because of their profession. Instead, they took their positions seriously and gave back to this wonderful country we live in. I always heard about performers like Bob Hope going overseas and performing for the troops and how much that meant to the troops overseas.

Nowadays, so many actors and actresses that 'show' an interest in the troops seem more interested in photo ops and good press for themselves than actually giving support to the troops. You can tell this by the fact that you see them regularly on the evening news. But the true patriot is the one who works tirelessly for his country without bringing attention to himself. Gary Sinise is just such a patriot. I was unaware until I read an article today of just all he does and has done to support our troops and the people of Iraq.

I hope you enjoy reading this heartwarming story of a man who loves his country!

I did a tribute two years ago for Lt. John A. Crisci as part of the 2,996 project.

Today, the children and I are watching the 9/11 ceremonies and talking about how that day changed so much. That will be our school work for today as we remember the innocent lives lost and the sacrifices made 7 years ago today.

Read about what how hard it is to receive the Medal of Honor and read about the courage of a man who believed in what he was doing. And wonder how many similar stories go untold.

No Greater Honor