“Let Freedom Ring,” photograph by Felecia R. Weber 2014, OntheWingofaDove.com

Let freedom ring!  A tribute to our nation.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”  Hebrews 12:1

This past Memorial Day weekend, my husband and I had the chance to visit both Ellis Island and  The Statue of Liberty with two of our dearest friends.  We had a very enjoyable time, and although the weather was overcast for much of the day, visiting these two sites that are so much part of our nation’s history caused my heart to beam with a brightness that I find hard to describe.  I have seem countless photographs of The Statue of Liberty.  I have heard numerous stories, including that of my own grandmother, of those who have come through Ellis Island to start anew in America.  I have felt the beating of my own heart as I’ve raised my hand to my chest to honor our nation’s flag and the strength and freedom that it represents.  But there was something solemn and unforgettable about actually being surrounded by these monuments that makes the phrase “let freedom ring” come alive.

There is no mistaking that we are facing some of the most difficult times in our nation’s history.  While I will not mention them here, I think that we’ve all been met with challenges recently that have made at least some part of our lives a struggle.  My mind was full of such thoughts as we road the ferry out to tour The Statue of Liberty.  The grey skies in the photograph above depicts what I felt perfectly.  That made me think too, about how those individuals who travelled to Ellis Island, the “new land,” long ago must have felt; a cloud of apprehension surrounding an anticipation of better times.

“Her Torch…A Guiding Light!,” photograph by Marilyn Hill

As we approached the statue and I got to examine her more closely, my mood changed.  The skies began to clear and as I gazed up at The Statue of liberty, she seemed to emulate a certain grace, majesty, power and hope.  It was as though she were crying out, “Let freedom ring!”  Starting anew, building a life and rising above what may threaten to keep you down.  There is freedom in that, and there is life in being free to become what you strive to be.  That is what so many have done here in our nation thus far…may we continue to do just that long into the future…let freedom ring…loudly!

Happy Independence Day!

Peace to you, Felecia