As per usual, since it is just before the 4th of July, we sing the song America the Beautiful in church (we also sing it at Thanksgiving - due to the 2nd 'pilgrim's feet' verse). And yes it is a beautful song and one that sends a message for unity. But today, singing it during Mass, we sang all 4 verses, and when we began verse 3, something inside me 'clicked' and I knew that there is so much more...

Verse 3:

Oh beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife
Who more than selves their country loved
And mercy more than life

America, America, may God thy gold refine
Til all success is nobelness
And every gain Divine.


Yes this had always made me think of our men and women in the military, but that line about "thy gold refine" always seemed to throw me. Until today. When the words passed my lips, I understood that the 'gold' are the 'heroes'. Those willing to sacrifice so much for others, and through their strength and courage make us all a better people. Where the ultimate goal is Right. And like gold, these men and women are precious. And very hard to find just anywhere.

So to those of us who will be celebrating America's independence this July 4th, take a moment in your celebrations and remember all those who do their best to keep us in the way we have grown accostomed to...being free.

Happy 4th of July!