"Born in the USA"

   As we celebrate 250 years  of our Nation, now is grand time to reflect on the basic gifts that result from living in a free country.  Bruce Springsteen's, "Born in the USA," was selected as the number one song that represents the freedoms and gifts we have living in this country. There certainly are other gifted song writers that have produced very moving and heartfelt songs that focus on the tremendous privileges available to those that are born in this amazingly beautiful country.  It is, indeed, a privilege to live here. 
    I pause during this time of celebration to reflect on what I have observed during my years in this country. Probably most importantly, is the truly compassionate and disciplined manner in which our country continues to expand and grow. I was brought up with a moral compass that was created by the words and actions of the adults around me and it was placed in my heart to guide me through life.  It was based on being honest, truthful, and taking responsibility for my actions, and there were consequences for the choices I made; good and not so good. 
     It was the adults that modeled these behaviors, and, of course, my parents were the primary examples. They were not perfect; however, they lived what they believed and shared what they had with those not as fortunate. Back then, preachers, teachers and most adults were role models for how to live in a community.  While life styles have greatly changed, the basic ethical qualities for which our country was founded have, in my observation, become blurred. People can espouse certain moral qualities, yet their actions show something completely different.  Instead of living in a "United States," the country is currently quite divided. People seem to say things that later their actions contradict their words.   There is a word that sums this up, it is called "Integrity," and it quite needed at this time. 
    What I know for certain is things are moving back to what this country was founded on, maybe not as quickly as i would like, but it is in motion.  Even with all our differences, we can and will find our way back to being "United" when we move from our Ego mind, and into our Hearts. I firmly believe we all are compassionate beings. We were designed to need and care about each other. As we celebrate our 250 years as a free country, may each of us truly look into our hearts and ask what it needs to bring us back into the "United States" we all love and are proud to be part of. And, the place to begin is in the mirror.
    As John F. Kennedy so brilliantly stated, "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." And remember, words do carry power, and the energy behind that power will determine what actions we will take. It is not what you do, it is the energy by which you do it.  Ponder that! 
   
​Grateful to be "Born in the USA"   and for all the beautiful examples provided by "All our Relations" that are inhabitants of this beautiful blue planet! Vicky 

NOTE: There wil be NO 3rd Thursday, "Deepening into Wisdom" circle this month!  See you Thursday, August 20, 6:30-8 P.M.
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