Happy Independence Day!

By Ralphine Major

I sat in the warm, summer breeze.  Wind rustled through heavy foliage, billowy clouds hid behind towering trees, and birds could be heard singing cheerfully.  In only a few days our nation would be celebrating July 4, 2023, marking the unofficial midpoint of summer.

In 1776 our country gained her independence, and the Fourth of July is often referred to as Independence Day.  It is a time when I think of the military and veterans, presidents and government leaders, democracy, and freedom—especially freedom.  The freedom to work, travel, worship, and go to school are only a few of the liberties Americans enjoy.  Our nation is facing an upcoming presidential election next year, which brings to mind another of our liberties—the freedom to vote.

On the festive day, special programs usually pay tribute to the military, the veterans, and those who gave all.  Images of the flag can be seen on merchandise from tee shirts and towels to paper plates and napkins.  Americans will surely celebrate the summer holiday with picnics, parades, and flags.  Old Glory can often be seen flying proudly on flagpoles on the front lawns of homes, at schools and churches, on car antennas, and on the back of truck beds.  In our rural neighborhood, the flag flies proudly on top of a John Deere tractor belonging to Marvin Boruff.  U.S. Army veteran Mike Johnson put the flag on Marvin's tractor.  Focus readers may recall Marvin was featured on his John Deere several years ago in The Focus.  As you celebrate this special day in our nation's history, have a safe, blessed, and Happy Fourth of July!

Words of Faith: II Chronicles 7:14 (KJV) always comes to mind this time of year.  "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."

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