True Colors

For most of us living in the United States, this month has a special meaning. The 4th of July is, of course, Independence Day. All across our nation people will be showing their true colors, i.e., flying the flag -- or not. I for one will be displaying an American flag for multiple reasons. For one, I want to celebrate the memory of the creation of a brave new government -- when a group of colony-states comprised of like-minded people seeking autonomy, liberty, and individual rights stood up for their beliefs against a tyrannical leader. One only has to look at the bloody battles going on today to imagine the price paid by our ancestors for their personal rights and political freedoms.

Secondly, without getting into a pissing match about whether or not we should be fighting the war(s) we're fighting, I will be flying the flag to honor the soldiers who answered the call to duty, and to all those who have died trying to do something they felt honor-bound to do. Though there have been tragic accidental deaths, and unsoldierly-like, inhumane, and unacceptable acts perpetrated by a few misguided, possibly psychologically damaged soldiers -- the heroics of the many young men and women attempting to bring about positive changes for the oppressed people across the globe should not be forgotten, and their sacrifices cannot be taken lightly...especially by those of us sitting here safe at home.

On this July 4th, I will be hoping that our soldiers come home to a flag flying high -- and not with a flag drapped over their caskets.

We owe a great debt to all our courageous soldiers, past and present. In Washington D.C., there is a monument to the fallen soldiers who died while fighting in Korea. The inscription reads, "Freedom is not free." That statement could not be truer than it is today.

To honor our soldiers currently on active duty, visit www.americasupportsyou.mil

Happy 4th of July.