Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Proud to be an American..


Today I went to take Chandler to the Story time at the Library and on the grass were all of the high school bands. They were having a Veterans Day concert. They announced that they were heading to the parade next. Chandler wanted me to follow the buses so we got in our car and went to the parade. It was neat to see all of the Veterans marching in their uniforms and to see the kids in their red, white and blue attire! For some reason whenever I see the flag flying or hear patriotic songs I get very emotional. I could barely keep myself together during the parade. Chandler was so cute, he wanted me to hold his candy so that he could clap and cheer for the Veterans. I just wanted to say thank you to all of the men and women who risk their lives on a daily basis for our FREEDOM! I am so proud to be an American and live in this free country. We have it so good here and we are very blessed to be a part of this nation. I am especially thankful to my amazing brother Nate who put off his family life and schooling to go serve with the 222nd in Iraq. It means so much to me that he would be willing to fight for our country and our freedom. I respect the military men and women so much and appreciate their service for people like me, that they don't even know. I am also thankful for the firefighters and policemen who put their lives on the line everyday to keep us safe and free from crime. I am so proud of my Dad and brothers who have chosen these occupations. It shows how self-less they are. We all play an important role in our communities and I hope that we all can be willing to serve those we come in contact with. Even something as simple as a smile or holding the door for the lady carrying her baby and trying to push her 2 year old through the door at the gym!!Thanks to all those who hold the door for me!! Thanks to all of those who have fought and are fighting to make our country what it is! Mahatma Gandhi said, "You must be the change you want to see in the world." I agree 100%. We can't sit back and expect good things to happen, we have to get off our tushes and make them happen!





Please enjoy this song and if it doesn't remind you of an elementary school assembly than you aren't a true BUCCANEER!!

7 comments:

Janette said...

Thank You Rikki, Todd and boys for the post. I love you guys and was touched to read those kind words. I am thankful for those opportunities i have had to serve. It is an honor. thank you again. Nate

Anonymous said...

Rikki-- I totally agree. I am so greatful for people like your brother. It also ticks me off when I see or hear of people who don't show there gratitude for them. They are definately hero's!! I cry everytime I hear this song too. Brooke

shawfamily said...

Thanks for that post:) I agree with you a 100%... I had no idea your brother is in iraq.. or was.. that's scary but way neat!:)... Oh and i love the song.. ha... before I read your coment I totally thought of bloomington elementary.. how we'd all stand up haha.. so about tomorrow thanks for the invite to jumping jacks.. but I don't think Halle would be old enough to be able to do anything she barely stands haha.. maybe in a few more months ...we'd love to come another time:)

Unknown said...

WHat a moving post! Love it! It seems like the real heros in our life are the ones who are s=willing to be a little less selfish then the rest of us! Love ya!

Ashley and Cody said...

This song and your post makes me so thankful for the beautiful country we live in. The people that serve our country are so brave. I loved your post and Chandler is such a sweet little guy. I loved reading your funny moments on the side as well, they made me laugh. We can't wait to see you guys in a couple of weeks!!

The Troxell's said...

That was cool, I'm glad that I am an american. Thanks

NAT said...

Thank you for such a great post. I love this song & always tear up everytime I hear it. I am so grateful to live in this country and that there are brave men like your Dad and brother who are serving it so well.

I get so upset when I hear people bash the country, are here illegally, and/or are yapping & not showing respect during the National Anthem. It's because of that flag and brave servicemen that they're even on this soil. Great post!