July 4. Independence Day. Hotdogs, hamburgers, family, friends, parades, fireworks. But let us not forget what we are celebrating. Freedom!
Sure, today is not Memorial Day or Veteran’s Day, but, while you celebrate, be sure to take at least a moment to reflect and thank those who gave us our freedom.
Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA” is one of my all time favorites, and this rendition is superb (even though country music isn’t usually my favorite!)
The first time I heard this song was a few days after September 11, 2001. There was a blackout of music on the radio for several days after that horrific event that shut down our country. I was on my way to work, and the radio announced that they were going to play their first song in several days. Then “God Bless the USA” came on.
I confess: I had to pull over, because I started crying so hard I couldn’t drive. It’s still hard for me to not get teary whenever I hear it. This acapella rendition by Home Free caused those tears to run again. (Note that there are no instruments in this rendition. Those are “human” drums!) I hope the words move you as much as they do for me.
Have a wonderful Independence Day. Stay safe. Be thankful for what we have, and fight to keep it. I am thankful, and I. Will. Fight!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!
Here’s the recording by Home Free
https://tr.im/1HmcI
God Bless the USA by Lee Greenwood
If tomorrow all the things were gone
I worked for all my life
And I had to start again
With just my children and my wife
I thank my lucky stars
To be living here today
‘Cause the flag still stands for freedom
And they can’t take that away
And I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I’d gladly stand up next to you
And defend Her still today
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt
I love this land
God Bless the U.S.A.
From the lakes of Minnesota
To the hills of Tennessee
Across the plains of Texas
From sea to shining sea
From Detroit down to Houston
And New York to L.A.
Where’s pride in every American heart
And it’s time we stand and say
That I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I’d gladly stand up next to you
And defend Her still today
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt
I love this land
God Bless the U.S.A.