Hundreds of thousands of our ancestors and forefathers had big dreams for the United States as well as from other Mother Lands.  The dreams were to improve their lives and childrens' lives, to be free and to enjoy what they fought hard to accomplish.  I am grateful for leaders who led countries for everyone's benefits, not their own, however if they led for their own dreams, they weren't really "leaders."  

I am reminded of history classes where I learned what others sacrificed for us to be able to live free.  However, history doesn't always bring to mind the realization of the passion that they felt and how hard they really worked.  When I see a photo such as this, it puts a face to every person who worked hard and should be recognized for their part in our world today.  It's not a perfect world but it is ours to change, just as it was their world to change.  (click on photo to EMBIGGEN)

 

Happy Independence Day!  Since our nation became the United States of America on July 4, 1776, our soldiers and citizens fought to keep our country independent and free.  Each American made and makes America what it is today, despite all that is wrong, the fire of hope for the future, courage, love, and pride fills in hearts.

I am grateful for all those who suffered, labored, and gave their lives for our country; I humbly salute them all whether they earned medals or not, they still sacrificed and deserve recognition. This is a photo of medals of a coworker who served in Vietnam and retired a Lt. Colonel from the Army - he entrusted them to me (for a project I am working on), which is an honor.

I am also grateful to all those who are serving now, both overseas and here in America. This is a statue that sits in front of the Hill Air Force Base, Utah. This statue is a reminder of how important letters are - either from family, friends, or strangers.


A fellow blogger, Carlo, from His-Phoenix, wrote a chilling post - his chilling reality as a soldier. Please keep Carlo - and all soldiers - in your thoughts and prayers.