4th Of July!

Happy 4th Of July!
By: Daniel Laudon

 

When I was younger, I had the opportunity to travel.  I was also involved in missions, visiting different countries and seeing diverse cultures. What I saw deeply impacted me. These travels are something I think about often as an adult. I also witnessed just how poor some of these countries are.  I saw children who were malnourished, they didn’t have enough food, they were starving. Countries where children needed clean water.  There wasn’t enough water for them to drink, let alone clean themselves or their clothes. Countries where families, children were living hungry, thirsty, and dirty. 

I have one very distinct memory of being on the mountains and passing some children on a path.  They greeted me, cheerfully waving and smiling. Now, I realize just how very few opportunities those children have.  It makes you just want to help them and give what you can.
 

We are blessed to live in one of the greatest nations in the world.  To experience the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy.  While we have our problems this Fourth of July, I will choose to be thankful for the freedom that this flag represents.  The flag and the ones that stood in the face of danger to keep this way of life for us!  I am honored to call some of them friends.  Here two of those brave men stand with the flag.