This is the picture that started it all. My Great Patriotic Awakening.
As I was getting ready to enter a Dollar General Store in another town, I noticed this worn and tattered American flag duct taped to the handicapped parking sign. I paused to take a picture. As any photographer knows, the wind never cooperates. I stood and waited for it to unfurl the fabric. I waited and waited. Finally, a small breeze picked up and I began snapping pictures hoping to get at least one good shot. It quickly died and I turned around. A soldier in uniform was standing behind me watching. I was startled. I thought I was alone. Quickly I extended my hand to thank him for his service to our country.
He replied that he had just returned from Afghanistan and was driving home. He wanted to watch me taking the pictures.
I welcomed him home, then choked up as he got into his car and drove away.
It made me stop and think. As I entered the store, I saw these.
I could not stop thinking about the soldier as I returned to the parking lot. Instead of driving away, I decided to pause and look around. This is what I saw in that tiny parking lot:
Yes, I too am proud to be an American.
What a beautiful post! Recently, I've thought patriotism is nearly dead, then your post shows me I'm wrong. Two of my BIL's are VietNam veterans and recently, while eating out, someone paid their bill for them. I love that kind of stuff.
ReplyDeletePatriotism is alive and well in the country in the South. I always thank anyone in uniform and also veterans when I can. My freedom is because of them.
DeleteWonderful!
ReplyDeleteYour thoughts and these pictures touched my heart. In some countries people should better know that freedom is not taken to be granted. I think Americans know this.
ReplyDeleteI say this as a Non-American.
I do hope you are right; although, I worry about so many people who seem oblivious to all that has been given to them.
DeleteYour post brought tears to my eyes. As an Air Force veteran of the Vietnam Era I know how important it is to come home and find people appreciative of your service. We were treated very differently and thank God that has come to an end. Funny how I posted a flag post this morning and seems like all I've been seeing since is flags! Isn't that always the case?
ReplyDeleteSugar, thank you for your service. I owe you my freedom. I saw your post and was warmed by your comments.
DeleteI am proud to be an American too! Meeting soldiers that have recently returned is quite a heartfelt experience. Love our flag!! Thanks for sharing with SYC.
ReplyDeletehugs,
Jann