Arlene Hawks

From the first musket shot, to the promises of peace and equality, we have always lived in an America where we have cherished our freedoms because of the brave men and women who have come before us, Every individual who stands up for the ideals of this country has poured their lives into this land hoping for a better future.

For the past 52 years I have had the honor and pleasure of being married to a Vietnam Veteran who makes a difference in my life each and every day. Although the LOVE for his country was not recognized on his return home, he realizes now that his efforts and those of his comrades did not go unnoticed on their road to a peaceful existence. Although most soldiers hold their memories close to their vests, their hearts beat loudly for the Red, White and Blue.

Looking back 250 years although a milestone, we have spent those years learning lessons on how to separate Love and Hatred for our fellow man. This brings sadness to my heart but this country has always found a way to STAND TALL no matter what the battleground. We have always found the strength to rise up and become a resilient America.

I come from a family of Italian immigrants and the question for us all is how can we NOT all Love America? Although we do not all live in the same economic status, we are all blessed in so many ways. The vibrant diversity of our country and the helping hand we reach out to our neighbor gives us the hope that we need to go forward.

And who doesn’t love FOOD? In America we have a mix of all nationalities to nourish the melting pot of our soul. And many restaurants welcome their patrons with the greeting… “Welcome Home”!! Who doesn’t love that warmth of Home? Each city that you travel may have their own specialty but it is certain your taste buds will remember the experience long after you are home.

Now who doesn’t love NATURE? America has a mix of all topography to enjoy and explore. There are the Rocky Mountains with some of the tallest peaks, the Great Plains stretching across the middle, flat and wide. Then we have the Appalachian Mountains in the east, older and more rounded and not to forget the coastal plains by the Atlantic or the deserts like the Mojave. America has a place for everyone…and my favorite place is the Jersey Shore where I have had my feet in the ocean and sand since childhood. Nothing like it!!

God Bless America…Land that I LOVE…As we begin the next 250 years I believe in you America…with all of your beauty and struggles I can see the hope of every generation and I will never stop believing in your future. Your beacon of HOPE will shine brightly for all the world to see.

With much Love and Admiration