The True Meaning Of Freedom
"I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments" (Psalm 119:45).
It is important to share the truth about faith and God’s plan for life with those we love because the current culture seems to accept an attitude of relativism; if it feels good, it must be alright. Obedience to God the Father is the most liberating gift, and His commandments give us the freedom to make good choices.
President Ronald Reagan once said, "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.” He was speaking of political autonomy; God’s freedom gives us real independence with an opportunity for eternal salvation. Both gifts are at stake in our world! Christ is counting on us, and our children need our witness of faith to God and loyalty to our country. Sharing truth with love is sometimes challenging.
We recently spent nine days traveling with our daughter’s family and our three grandsons. We ventured west through six states and covered over 3,000 miles. We experienced the physical beauty of our country’s landscape and witnessed the great American pride of the people in each state. “This Land is your land!” No more apologies for the history of this nation by removing reminders of the good times and not-so-good, which prevents us from the hope of continuing the American Spirit.
Americans take care of one another and the environment by generously sharing their gifts and blessings every day! Reflect on this truth! The sovereignty of the United States is a blessing! Contrary to what we read or see in the media, life is good! When you travel, you realize that people really are the same wherever you go. Kindness and gratitude are common treasures! Desire God in all you do, and everything in your life will be happier because God feeds our souls with peace and joy!
Our daughter researched and planned a great adventure. We left Indiana to visit great places from our front door to South Dakota. The “Field of Dreams” in Iowa, the Badlands, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Ellsworth Air Force Base, Custer State Park, Deadwood City, museums, train rides to gold mines, waterfalls, mountains, caverns, cornfields, vast acres of green unoccupied hills, cattle, horses, buffalo and all types of wildlife – with a parade and rodeo – which were all enjoyed through the eyes of wonder in our grandchildren.
The memory-making and teachable moments were incredible, and many pictures were taken. We played baseball in the cornfields of Iowa, participated in the patriotic closing ceremony at Mount Rushmore, where our grandsons earned a junior ranger badge. They learned about our presidents and the history of our country, and they observed why we honor our military men and women at the Air Force Base. We tunneled 287 feet underground through the gold mines and sang songs with a musician in the Golden Nugget Bar and Grill. The hospitality in cowboy country was awesome for seven-, five- and three-year-old boys.
Celebrating Mass while traveling is always a blessing. The priest asked, “who remembers the Gospel reading from last Sunday?” I raised my hand, and I think I embarrassed my grandson, who quickly whispered, “Grandma, you weren’t here last Sunday!” A teaching moment about the Universal Catholic Church was shared after Mass. I love my Church, family and country! I pray we never take for granted the freedoms enjoyed in the United States. God has blessed America, and we must protect her with our heart and soul from generation to generation! Now and forever! Amen!
