Patriotism Swells in the Heart of the American Bear (and woman)

If you know me, you know I love The Muppets and Muppet humor!  But I also love the sweetness they exude-and this is one of those moments. This is from the original Muppet Movie from the 70's and it still gets me all misty eyed with patriotism.

I feel like Patriotism is becoming a lost art in our country. I'm not sure that people today even understand it completely, so when people show their love of country, especially for our grand United States of America, it really touches my soul.

This past weekend I was able to be in Deer Valley with Chad and have the lovely experience of seeing the Utah Symphony perform a concert outdoors in all the beauty that surrounded us. The concert was themed 1812 Overture and there were several grand numbers that were patriotism filled. The whole concert itself was incredible. I loved every minute-of course the biggest factor was that I was with Chad-but beyond that it was just beautiful in every way.

The concert started with the military bringing out the American flag while we stood with our hands over our hearts. The orchestra started playing the National Anthem. It was so amazing it took my breath away. Then a veteran behind us started belting out the words to the anthem in a beautiful booming voice. Right at that moment vintage war jets started their fly over. It gives me goose bumps to even be writing about it. I could not sing. I just stood there with my hand over my heart with tears streaming down my face. I loved it.

Our evening in Deer Valley-facing the stage

One of the most memorable parts of the evening was when the symphony did a medley of all the armed forces anthems-The Marines, The Army-all the people who work to keep freedom alive in our country. When your anthem played, as a service member (or relative) you would stand and be recognised. As "Anchors Away" (the fight song of the Navy) began, the gentleman behind us who had sung the National Anthem began singing to his fight song-in the same strong, proud, beautiful voice. I pretty much lost it at that point. I was overcome with gratitude that I am so blessed to be an American-to know what that means, and to have so many men and women so valiantly put their lives on the line so I can enjoy my freedom. I love America. I know that God blesses America. We need to let God bless America. Have a wonderful 4th of July!

Joint Colors-The Armed Forces