“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.” Ronald Reagan

During this time of social unrest, global rumblings, world politics and a stage filled with actors that seem to have no direction, I often wonder what kind of legacy have we created for the children of the future.

These little ones are getting a distorted picture of what our world can be. They’re exposed daily to tragedy, hopelessness and fear. They cannot even attend school without going through secured doors. The norm of their existence is peppered with negative news, bullying techniques on both sides, fear mongering, hatred and a social media that defines them.

Children are the future. They are the ones who will lead us some day. They need to know the cost of freedom. They need to be reminded that this place is worth preserving and that God is always at the helm.

I am genuinely concerned for my grandchildren and their children. As monuments are removed and destroyed; as art depicting battles from the past are eliminated from our public buildings; as words are revised and rewritten pertaining to the blood shed for the freedom we enjoy; as history is eliminated from the classroom – future generations will never understand what the cost was.

National pride has almost become extinct. The word “pride” has now taken on a totally new meaning. Now we opt for self-gratification, instant everything and a country that will bend easily to our own agenda, rather than one that serves all.

What do we tell these young people as they come out of colleges and high schools? How do we excite them for a future of success and accomplishment, when there seems nothing to be proud of anymore” We owe it to them to re-instill a love of country. America is worth the fight. Those of us who lived through several battles over the years, will attest to the fact. There are scars. There are still open wounds. Lives have been spent out of love for her, and the freedoms we hold dear are worth the battle.

We need to rekindle the flames of patriotism. We need to pray for our leaders. We must ask God to intercede so that there is something left for future generations to hand on to their children. Don’t turn your back on the flag. Don’t bend a knee in protest against the very nation that paid dearly for your right to do so. Don’t give up on America, because God never gave up on us.

There is hope for the future. God has provided for our eternal life with Him in heaven. In the time we have remaining, as parents and grandparents, we need to leave a United States for future generations. This means, putting aside our own interests and joining together as one nation, under God.