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![\"Melanie](\"https:\/\/www.melaniebnewman.com\/staging\/9944\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/signature.png\")
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"I was blessed to grow up with a wonderful father who loved God, who loved his wife (my mother), who loved his family (me and 7 siblings), and who loved his country!<\/p>\n
I knew that on many of the National Holidays we would be putting up the American flag and it made me happy as a child. My father always showed great reverence and respect and taught us to do the same. I remember learning there is a certain way to fold the flag, that it shouldn\u2019t ever touch the floor, it shouldn\u2019t be left out overnight without a light on and so much more.<\/p>\n
I remember the safety and security I felt as we would stand with hands over our hearts as the flag would be brought into events such as scouting, parades, and every morning in my school classroom, as we recited the Pledge of Allegiance. These are happy, beautiful memories and ones I cherish.<\/p>\n
I still feel that love and respect today for what our flag represents and for my father who taught me to honor it and those who have died defending it!<\/p>\n
Today is Memorial Day in the United States, a day to remember and honor those who have died while serving in the armed forces.<\/p>\n
Other countries also have established days of remembrance for their valiant men and women who have fallen in service for their countries. And as Abraham Lincoln said, they gave \u201cthe last full measure of devotion\u201d to a cause greater than self.<\/p>\n
How grateful I am for those who paid the ultimate price, and for their families!<\/p>\n
Words don\u2019t seem enough, but we can start there. We can also choose to live in a manner befitting recipients of God-given freedoms.<\/p>\n
I encourage you to spend time today in pondering and appreciating the sacrifices made in your behalf. What can you do today to show gratitude to God and to the men and women who have made your life free?<\/p>\n
Love,
\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
I was blessed to grow up with a wonderful father who loved God, who loved his wife (my mother), who loved his family (me and 7 siblings), and who loved his country! I knew that on many of the National…<\/p>\n