To guide us with the light of love

It's Veteran's Day. 

Both of my grandfathers served in the Air Force.

My dad's father was a bomber escort pilot in Japan in World War II.

My mom's dad was too young for WWII but served in Korea. 

Hinsdales have been in every war since before the American Revolution.

It's one of the many reasons that I am intensely proud to be an American.

 And I am so deeply grateful to those who serve our country.

I've always loved America, but it's meant even more for me over the last 5 years or so, since the first time I really left the country
 (I had been to Canada once)

 and went on a 2 week tour of Europe. 

I saw the coast of Ireland

 the rolling hills of Belgium

 the endlessly fascinating cities of England

 and the unparalleled beauty of France.

The lands of all of my ancestors.

I looked around and saw so much of the state that I call home.

 My beloved Pennsylvania. 

I could see how they took the beauty and the community of their homeland and brought it to this new world.

This promised land.

How brave they were.

 How strong to leave behind their families and leave forever these genuinely beautiful countries.

All to come to a new country and to fight for freedom.

 For this city upon a hill.

 For life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

I am grateful for every solider, for every family, for every single act of selflessness and strength.

 I am so thankful for blessings I enjoy because of the sacrifice of my forefathers and my countryman.

God bless America

 and I ask God most especially bless our Veterans.

Lori Ann