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You Don’t Have to Like War to Be Grateful!

 

In the early moments of today, I heard the news.  Osama bin Laden is no more.  Many of my fellow Americans are waving flags — or raising a glass — in celebration. Rather than feeling celebratory, I find myself quietly thankful … so very thankful.

 

Before September 11, 2001 I thought I knew what it meant to be a proud American. I proudly flew Old Glory on patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July. The rest of the year I flew “fun” flags to celebrate the various seasons.

 

But on the morning of September 12, 2001, with a heavy heart, I hung the Stars and Stripes … with no intention of replacing them with “fun” again.  The “fun” flags still hang in the attic — a jumbled mix of seasons. It’s probably time to get rid of them.

 

Now my red, white, and blue flies year-round …

 

The only time it changes is when a yellow ribbon is added. My son-in-law and I tie it on the pole just before he deploys — and we take it off together when he returns.

 

We’ve done that twice … so far.

 

I don’t ever want to forget what I felt on September 11, 2001.

 

I posted about it HERE.

 

The freedoms I know are the result of great sacrifices by many who lived before me … and many who fought and died so I could live.  The freedoms I know continue because of great sacrifices still being made by brave men and women today — and by their families.  Freedoms I pray will continue long into the future for my little grandson — and his grandsons. The abilities of his parents and grandparents to protect him only go so far …

 

Osama bin Laden is no more. That in itself is a great victory for freedom … and for justice … in response to the senseless tragedy of September 11. Ironically, my last post here spoke of courage. I had no idea when I wrote it just how much courage had recently been required of our military, our intelligence community, our President. For their courage in the face of criticism … or fear … or for some, even death … I am thankful. I am proud. I am humbled and grateful.

 

For every man and woman … mother and father … sister and brother … son and daughter … who has played any role, however small, in protecting American freedoms — my freedoms — thank you. May God upon whom America’s foundation rests protect you and call you to Him and give you courage for the days ahead. The battle against the forces of evil continues …

 

What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.
Psalm 56:3

 

* * * * *

 

I’m linking to Blue Monday at Smiling Sally
and Inspiration Friday — At the Picket Fence

Related posts:

Haunted … in Broad Daylight HAUNTED … by Two Tattered Flags Do You Pray? Where I Was On September 11, 2001 Flag-waving from Mackinac Island
2 May 2011
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Comments

  1. SmilingSally says
    May 2, 2011 at 7:21 PM

    Aw, Rose, you made me cry–happy, proud, thankful tears. Thanks for sharing your blues.

    Happy Blue Monday.

  2. SmilingSally says
    May 2, 2011 at 7:24 PM

    Now, why did I call you Rose?

    Have a good day, Susan!

  3. Dena E's Blog says
    May 2, 2011 at 8:51 PM

    Wow,,,soooo very heartfelt and lovely… Just beautiful Sweetie…
    Prayers and Hugs Dena
    May the God above bless you with His AWESOME LOVE in your new week…Amen

  4. chubskulit says
    May 3, 2011 at 12:27 AM

    Just beautiful for the heart and soul!

    Blue Hyacinth, hope you can come and see. Thanks!

  5. Debbie says
    May 3, 2011 at 12:59 AM

    You expressed this more beautifully that I ever could.

    Amen, Susan.

  6. Sherri says
    May 3, 2011 at 3:29 AM

    Susan..Such beautiful soul reaching words. I too put up my flag on 9/12 and have never taken it down and don’t plan too. Thank you for your words and tears of pride your words brought to my eyes.
    http://twotulipstalking.blogspot.com/

  7. A Toile Tale says
    May 3, 2011 at 1:25 PM

    Amen and thank you. The eloquence of your words moves me very much. I just did a survey of spiritual gifts this morning and I must say that your gift is evident in your words. The street celebrations are bothering me regarding this event, even though my heart knows that this world is better for the removal of this man from the earth. Let us heal.
    Linda @ A Toile Tale

  8. At The Picket Fence says
    May 12, 2011 at 3:20 AM

    So beautiful Susan! As the wife of a husband involved in the “war on terrorism” your post so beautifully expressed how I feel! Thank you for sharing your lovely words with us at
    Inspiration Friday At The Picket Fence!

    Heather