There were a few of us this past week who visited the cemeteries around Fulda and put flags on the graves of veterans and those who were members of auxiliaries. These flags serve to honor those who gave of themselves to defend the freedom of our country. Have you taken time to just walk through a cemetery to read and “listen” to the history there? It is not only fascinating, but humbling as well. Our freedom, of course as we all know, isn’t “free”. Many have sacrificed for all of us in this country of the United States of America. I came across this article written by our former president, Franklin D. Roosevelt, which breaks down our freedom into four parts. Something to ponder and reflect on at this important time in history.
The Four Freedoms
In the future days, which we seek to make secure, we look forward to a world founded upon four essential freedoms.
The first is freedom of speech and expression – everywhere in the world.
The second is freedom of every person to worship God in his own way – everywhere in the world.
The third is freedom from want — which translated into world terms, means economic understanding which will secure to every nation a healthy peacetime life for its inhabitants – everywhere in the world.
The fourth is freedom from fear — which translated into world terms, means a world-wide reduction of armaments to such a point and in such a fashion that no nation will be in position to commit an act of physical aggression against any neighbor – anywhere in the world. Franklin D. Roosevelt
While most of us are not lawmakers, we do have influence where we live and breathe out our ordinary days. May we live in a spirit of thankfulness, and be bold to speak out when our words are needed to better the world around us. And then let us put our actions where our words are heard. As you celebrate this week remembering Memorial Day and all that it means, take time to give thanks for our freedoms – all of them.
I want to add sincere congratulations to all of our area graduates. Most of us wish it could be different for you this year, but under these extreme circumstances, we are called to live under the guidelines given to us. Do know that we, as a community, are very proud of your accomplishments. As you go forward to accomplish your goals, may strength, patience, and wisdom be yours.
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