The minute a person whose word means a great deal dares to take the open-hearted and courageous way, many others will follow.
We are all here to have a kind of living of our own and to be recognized for what we are.
Marian Anderson (1897-1993) was an American contralto whose deep, rich voice presented a variety of music from opera to spirituals. She performed in many venues in both Europe and the United States for nearly 40 years.
Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality.
I feel that the greatest reward for doing is the opportunity to do more.
Jonas Salk (1914-1995) was an American medical researcher. He developed one of the first successful vaccinations for polio.
We cannot afford to be naive about evil–it must be faced. But we cannot be intimidated by it either. It will be used by God to bring good.
From Romans 8:31: “What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us?”
Eugene Peterson (1932-2018) was an American pastor, theologian, and Christian author.
In the United States, the “Pledge of Allegiance” has been recited countless times in school classrooms, at the beginning of meetings, sporting events, and other instances. The original 29 words were inspired by the writings of Francis Bellamy (from 1892) and became official in 1923. In 1954, the words, “under God” were added. These 31 words mean much more than just a mere collection of words.
We the People, commit to stand
With loyalty across this land
Stars and Stripes shall forever fly
Old Glory standing proud and high
Solidarity, stand as One
United, never be undone
A more perfect Union shall spring
Shining democracy will ring
Tested, resilient, and upright
Faithful courage, nation’s birthright
Built upon God’s eternal love
Divine guidance comes from above
Inseparable and lasting
Forged by trial and fire’s casting
Covering this land of the free
Freedom from sea to shining sea
Conquers inequities with care
Truth and righteousness come to bear
I have posted this video before, but it is worth a second look. Here is American comedian, Red Skelton, sharing his interpretation of the words’ meaning in the “Pledge of Allegiance.”
Originally published January, 2021.
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
From Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Reinhold Neibuhr (1892-1971) was an American theologian as well as a commentator on public affairs. He was a professor at Union Theological Seminary for over 30 years.
Music is a bridge builder, connecting our stories.
In any given day, there are acts of courage and kindness that remind us of the goodness in the world.
Ellie Holcomb (born 1982) is an American singer and songwriter. She grew up in Nashville, Tennessee.
For faith is a mover of mountains–there’s nothing man cannot achieve if he has the courage to try it and then has faith to believe.
From Mark 11:22-23: “Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God. Truly I tell you, if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and if you do not doubt in your heart but believe that what you say will come to pass, it will be done for you.'”
Helen Steiner Rice (1900-1981) was an American writer who specialized in Christian and inspirational poetry.
From Deuteronomy 31:8: “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
Always going before us
Seeing every tomorrow
Faith’s steadfast anchor
Courage, buoyed by Spirit’s shadow
Every moment in prayer
Feeling His daily kinship
Peace shared from Father
Grace sails, with encouragement’s ship
Journey’s turbulent moments
Shrinking in Calvary’s light
Christ wins each battle
Enemy’s darkness, taking flight
Imperfect oceans of faith
Sailing upon trusted rock
Redemption in Christ
Mercy’s strength, brings to Heaven’s dock
From 1 Corinthians 16:13: “Keep alert; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”
The greatest test of courage is to bear defeat without losing heart.
In nature there are neither rewards nor punishments; there are consequences.
Robert G. Ingersoll (1833-1899) was an American lawyer, writer, and orator.
From Isaiah 43:19: “I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth; do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”
Be prepared to be surprised
Promises shall be fulfilled
God honors His divine Word
From wilderness, truth rebuilds
Faith’s path to mighty waters
Savior’s life rising from death
Light’s mercy conquers darkness
Resurrection’s living breath
Deliverance from sin’s death
Salvation wipes away tears
Harvest of grace bearing joy
Witness Jesus, He appears
Flesh left at Calvary’s cross
Righteousness offers new road
Christ buys freedom with His blood
Gather love from seeds He sowed
Courage found in Savior’s steps
Invitation to see ahead
Holy Spirit left to guide
Nourished with God’s daily bread
From Psalm 126:5-6: “May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.”
Big Sky Buckeye 