One Nation Under God

Over the next few weeks I am probably going to post a lot on our Nation... This is something that I have a special place in my heart and a strong sense of pride for. I have always loved my Country and I have always loved the 4th of July season. I love that so many in my family have served in the Armed Forces and have sacrificed so much so that we can live free... worship free... and die free. I am so proud to be an American and so greatful that I was born into a situation where I can enjoy life to the fullest. I am so grateful to be married to a man that has such strong values and wants to serve our country because he wants our children and our childrens children to have the same freedom that we enjoy.

Over this last weekend Josh and I were able to go to Phoenix for some Military Training. One of the nights there was a annual Military Ball for the Recruiters in the Batallion. Before serving dinner there was a ceremony in which (among many other things) the American Flag was folded by the some of the soldiers. I had to fight really hard not to cry seeing those Men and Women folding the flag dressed in their dress blues. They weren't just folding the flag either... I could see on their faces the responsibity that each of them felt as they participated in folding this beautiful symbol of our Country. As they were carefully folding someone at the pulpit recited what each fold meant. I was able to find it off of the internet and thought I would share.

The first fold of our Flag is a symbol of life.

The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.

The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.

The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.

The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.

"The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to theRepublic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our Republic.

The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day.

The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.

The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he,too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.

The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen,represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.When the Flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our Nation's motto, "In God We Trust."

After the Flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat,ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.