My suggested reads are inspired with America celebrating her independence. As a proud American and a proud Military spouse, it is not a difficult task for me to be moved by such. While we may be divided somewhat by issues, we all stand united at the core of what America is all about. What is America all about? I would say freedom comes to my mind first, but it is even more in-depth then a simple word. Perhaps diversity and with the ability to be who we are? That could even be argued by some. The idea to argue the point in the first place? Now we are getting close. We may not always agree with each other on our beliefs, our sexuality, religion, the way we bring up our children or our politics, but we most likely can agree that we have not known any other way to live. I would like to believe that we are trying as a nation to live by one rule and that is 'live and let live'.

I pledge allegiance to the Flag
of the United States of America,
and to the Republic for which it stands:
one Nation under God, indivisible,
With Liberty and Justice for all.

I love the flag of United States of America. I don't pray to it like a god or believe it holds magical powers, but it does hold something. It shares with the public a visual strength that trembling fingers sewn together expressing liberty, hope, courage and bravery. When I think of Betsy Ross and that first flag made, I can not help but be grateful for her display and giving unity. That is definitely what our flag serves and serves us well. Now, sadly there are those that want to burn old glory. Why they want to do this isn't exactly clear to me. Are they destroying our flag as a personal message of insult or are they burning it to prove they can? While I would never burn the flag I do not take offense at seeing it in flames. That sight only proves to me that nothing can destroy what this country is all about, nor flames may touch her core.

Popular school song, as recalled and submitted by Anne Dreisbach, an American patriot.

Said Washington to Betsy Ross, "A flag our nation needs
To lead our valiant soldiers on to high and noble deeds
Now can you make one for us, to which she made reply,
"I am not certain if I can; At least I'll gladly try."

Chorus:
So she took some red for the blood they shed
Some white for purity,
Some stars so bright from the sky overhead
Some blue for loyalty,
And sewed them all together,
For loyal hearts and true,
And hand in hand as one we stand
For the red, the white and the blue.

Said Betsy Ross to Washington, "Your country's flag behold!"
And through his tear-dimmed eyes he saw the stars and stripes unfold.
Then to his breast he clasped it, and looked to heaven above.
"Oh may it ever stand," he cried, "For rights and truth and love."

• Patriotism at its BEST!

• Betsy Ross and the American Flag
• Let's Roll
• My America
• The Pledge of Allegiance
• The Star Spangled Banner
• Read The Declaration of Independence

"One day some of the other teachers and I decided to go on a trip to 14,000-foot Pikes Peak. We hired a prairie wagon. Near the top we had to leave the wagon and go the rest of the way on mules. I was very tired. But when I saw the view, I felt great joy. All the wonder of America seemed displayed there, with the sea-like expanse." ~Katharine Lee Bates

Listen to the melody and read the lyrics to America the Beautiful by Katherine Lee Bates.

Celebrate your freedoms, debate your differences, raise the flag in honor and don't forget to say a prayer for those still fighting for liberties for all.