To You and Yours, Friends and Neighbors

I have earned the right to always be heard

I speak from the wisdom of many years of life

Look and gaze upon my furls when the wind is calm, cherish me

Look and gaze at my glory when winds stand me straight out, cherish me

I have known many scholars, religions, scientists, colors, races and Presidents

Millions have stood before me, hand over heart

Millions have stood before me, with honored salute

When folded corner to corner, I know heartache and pain

When wrapped around the rested arms of the warriors who keep flying, I hope they feel my warmth, for I know the sacrifice they have made

Not all stand for me anymore

But I’d like to think all still relish in pride when I am about

I have been called by many names

“Stars and Stripes” “Old Glory” “The Red White and Blue” and the “Star Spangled Banner”

I have seen the good times as freedom rings and suffered through the bad times when I have endured flame and been showed distain

I have seen the best in men, and the worse, the good and the evil

I have traveled the globe, on stormy seas, in the air, under the water

I have traveled to far-away places beyond the sky

I have circumvented all things that look to destroy me

And I have lived over two century’s, seen much, seen fields turned red with sacrifice, so I can continue on

I can be at blissful peace, though not many times have afforded me such

I can be seen tattered and torn atop a hill while in defense of what is right and honorable

I am a symbol of pride and freedom, one known like no other throughout the world

I have earned the right to be heard – you have taught me that since the onset

I am Proud and Protective, I fly over one Nation, Under God, bringing Liberty and Justice

I am for all mankind who believe in me and hold dear the things I stand for – who weep for those who have laid down their lives to ensure my continued existence

I am the American Flag, God Bless the USA

Join me this weekend in Her Honor, and the Honor of those who have and will continue to defend Her, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in Her name.

– a Safe and Happy 4th of July