Celebrating the Fourth
Posted: Sunday, June 28, 2009
by Grammy Guru
http://grammyguru.com
They are almost three years old, but, to some degree, they already understand what it means to be an American. Before they were a year old, they were taken to the local Fourth of July parades and taught to stand with their hands over their hearts as the American flag passed. They know how to salute properly the veterans marching in those parades. Their parents model how to stand quietly and show reverence when our national anthem is played. They wear "Proud to be an American" tee shirts even when it isn't the Fourth of July. Their parents regularly show them the triangularly folded, glass encased flags that once adorned their grandfathers' coffins and explain their grandfathers were true superheroes.
In successive years, amid the celebration of the Fourth of July events, we trust these young Americans will comprehend more fully the blessings of being an American citizen. But, as grandparents and parents, it is our responsibility to inspire them to serve their country in ways commensurable with their abilities.
Helping to keep America the land of the free is every American's ongoing duty and responsibility.
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More commentsGrammy, you brought back memories of taking our kids to the rodeo parade in Colorado. Each time an American flag passed by, we all stood. Each year, the number of people who stood diminished. That always bothered me - because to me, standing represented respect for our country and our values. Good article!Please log in to respond to this comment.Dear Lorrie,I'm glad that communities still have parades on the 4th, or it could turn into just another barbecue/party day with fireworks. I love all of those too, but the reason we have a 4th should be the focus.Thanks for reading and commenting.GrammyPlease log in to respond to this comment.
Hi Grammy, you sure know how to pack a big punch in a small package. I could picture a parade and flags waving. Some smiling faces, some with tears.Excellent commentary which brings attention to all of our freedoms. Blessings to you...and to all who standing in the gap this day. TeresaPlease log in to respond to this comment.Dear Teresa,Yes, the 4th should be about remembering why we are celebrating the day. Too many of the younger generations have had a free ride, so to speak, and have no idea of the price paid for their freedom.Thanks for reading and sharing.GrammyPlease log in to respond to this comment.
What a sweet picture! I am sure those three-year olds will be just precious this fourth of July!Please log in to respond to this comment.Dear Laura,It's going to bittersweet for me. I love the parades, but the reason we can celebrate brings tears to my eyes every time.Thanks for reading and commenting.GrammyPlease log in to respond to this comment.
Grammy, this is a great reminder! I'm looking forward to teaching my kids a little bit more about being an American this Fourth.Please log in to respond to this comment.Good for you, Rob. Parents who teach their children these valuable lessons when they are young set a good example and reap the benefits of rearing wonderful citizens.Have a wonderful holiday.Please log in to respond to this comment.
Dear Grammy Guru,Thank you for writing this article. I still remember when my husband passed away I was presented the triangularly folded American flag. My eyes were filled with tears but I could remember the white embroidered stars on a blue background. I remembered clearly when the taps was sounded. Grammy, thanks for sharing this beautiful article about Fourth of July celebration.Happy Fourth!NenitaPlease log in to respond to this comment.Hi, Nenita,Thanks for reading and commenting. Hope you have a wonderful 4th!Please log in to respond to this comment.
Grammy,What a great article reminding us of our wonderful freedom. And, the appreciation we all should have for those who unselfishly chose to protect their country so that we can sleep in peace at night.DeborahPlease log in to respond to this comment.Hi, Deborah,It's nice to know how many others appreciate our gift of freedom. I'm so thankful for being able to celebrate it in this way.Please log in to respond to this comment.
Hi Grammy,Thanks for sharing, hope its a great day.Ben.Please log in to respond to this comment.Thanks for reading and commenting, Ben. Have a great holiday!Please log in to respond to this comment.
Beautiful tribute! I am moved by the sentiment. Have a great day.Please log in to respond to this comment.Hi, Jena,Hope you have a safe and happy 4th. Thanks for commenting!Please log in to respond to this comment.
GOOD ARTICLEPlease log in to respond to this comment.Thanks, Wes.Hope you and yours have a safe and wonderful 4th.GrammyPlease log in to respond to this comment.
What an awesome responsibility.Please log in to respond to this comment.Indeed it is, Jeanine. But what incredible benefits we Americans have.Have a wonderful 4th. Thanks for reading and commenting.Please log in to respond to this comment.
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