Last night, I went to hear Glenn Beck speak at the “Patriotic Service” sponsored by America’s Freedom Festival at Provo. My friend, Pasty, gave me a call and persuaded me to attend… (I usually avoid large crowds.. but made an exception to my rule… and I’m glad I did.)

The evening was filled with singing… emotion… good speakers… emotion… a wonderful band… emotion and emotion. I have to tell you… my heart was full, and I couldn’t help my tears from flowing freely along with thousands of others… including Glenn Beck.

World renown operatic singer, Michael Ballam, treated us all with beautiful renditions of “The Star Spangled Banner,” “God Bless America,” My Country Tis of Thee,” and several other patriotic songs. We even sang along with a few. I remember learning those songs in elementary school… so every word came flashing through my mind as clearly as if I were back sitting in Miss Hiatt’s second grade class. Do teachers still teach those songs to the kids?

When the band played the “Theme Song” of each of the military divisions… Navy, Army, and such… the former vets stood. I look around and noticed a”World War II” vet standing especially tall… at attention… and my heart said, “Thank you for your service.” Bawl… Bawl.

Glenn Beck seemed to be especially emotional and didn’t refrain from letting the tears flow down his cheeks as he reminded us that “Freedom isn’t free.” It takes us… as the people… to wake up and pay attention and recommit ourselves to do, as the founding fathers did… pledge our lives, our fortunes and sacred honor to be the new bearers of the country’s sacred trust.

I have a tendency to be a little cynical when it comes to “Washington,” and I grumble about going to vote… wondering if it will make any difference. But… voting is something I do because, it’s an opportunity few other countries have.

Beck said, “People are dying in the desert to have just a small piece of what we take for granted everyday. We just have to remember who we are.” I do remember… I remember what it was like to land in San Fransisco, arriving from main land China… and wanting to hug everyone I saw and kiss the ground.

Flag Day Glitter Graphics
With Beck’s encouragement, I renewed my appreciation for the freedom I enjoy in this country and made a commitment to myself not to grumble.

Till later,

Kathy Griffiths

Insightful Nana

P.S. I just loved hearing the band play “Stars and Stripes Forever.” In my minds eye, I could see myself marching and twirling my baton on the front lawn of our home…for the neighbors…hmmm…the boys… the Stars and Stripes blaring in the background. Don’t you just love the piccolo? What a blast!