Happy 4th of July!!!

The flag flying over Fort McHenry in 1814 that stirred the heart of Francis Scott Key

In my attempt to post something patriotic I searched the web for a patriot poem. I came across some that were ok, and some really good ones. But the words in the 4th verse of our national anthem kept coming to mind. My heart fills with pride for our county and the many men and women who have fought, some giving all, for this nation we call home when I hear the words in the 1st verse. But not so long ago I stood singing not only the 1st verse but the 4th verse also.

My heart was so full. I was proud to be an American, proud to be the grand-daughter of a WWII veteran, and thankful to all that have served to keep us free. But while singing that last verse I could not help but be overwhelmed with gratitude towards the One who allowed our nation to be great, and allowed me to be a part of this great land. We truly are "blessed with victory and peace", and we need to remember more often to "Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us". So now in honor of Independence Day I leave you with the close of Francis Scott Key's famous poem, and a prayer that all of my family and friends have a safe and blessed Fourth of July.

O thus be it ever when free men shall stand

Between their loved homes and the war's desolation;

Blest with victry and peace, may the Heav'n rescued land

Praise the Pow'r that hath made and preserved us a nation!

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just;

And this be our moto: "In God is our trust!"

And the Star-Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave

O're the land of the free, and the home of the brave.