Who Can Help God Bless America?

Who can help God bless America? This task is reserved for people with courage, dedication, patriotism, diligence and love . . . like firefighters, military personnel, policemen and presidents. But they aren’t the only ones who preserve the "land of the free and the home of the brave."

Since I left home for college in 1964, my mother has written me a weekly letter telling me the news from home and updating me on the activities of my brothers and sisters and their families. Sometimes, the letters are four or five pages long . . . no margins allowed. Each of my five siblings gets the same treatment. My mother is dedicated. She helps God bless America.

Recently, my husband and I watched Judy Andrews run a dramatic segment of the Olympic torch relay as it threaded its way toward a cauldron-lighting ceremony in Boise. She had her four young children with her. Their family was stationed at Mountain Home Air Force Base nearby when her husband, Evander Andrews, became the first American casualty in the war against terrorism. Judy has patriotism. Judy helps God bless America.

I met my friend, Bonnie, at a wedding reception, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. They’re a congenial clan and were having a delightful time. If I didn’t know the facts, I wouldn’t believe that her feet had been amputated less than eighteen months ago. Bonnie has courage. Bonnie helps God bless America.

Every Sunday morning, at 8:58 a.m., my friend Connie and her husband come trooping into our chapel on McMillan Rd. with their four children, all under eight years old. Every shoe is tied, every shirt and dress is clean and every freckle has been polished. The faces of the children almost sparkle. Church starts at 9:00. Connie is diligent. Connie helps God bless America.

My friend, Carol, wanted a family more than she wanted a promising career as a concert pianist. She is the mother of two and teaches piano to many budding musicians. Carol’s 20-year-old son, Chris, has cystic fibrosis. His life and health are ever fragile. Carol has learned to appreciate every moment and continues to be there every step of the way. Carol has love. Carol helps God bless America.

In every neighborhood across these United States, American citizens rise up to meet their ordinary and extraordinary circumstances with courage, dedication, patriotism, diligence and love. Each one helps God bless America. It is my belief that ordinary American mothers are among those who do it best.