His eyes twinkled as he talked about the past. Mr. Jim was nearing 100 years old, yet his memory was as sharp as they come, especially when recounting the days he fought for his country. He fought in many wars and as I sat there listening to every detail, tears filled his eyes. It was as if he was re-living every moment of those battles and the passion was just as strong and real. That was evident. My dog was sitting at his feet, looking up and I was hanging on to every word. “I love this great country of mine,” he said. “I would fight for her all over again.” The tears continued as he talked about those dear to him that he lost. Those that were not as fortunate to make it home. I sat there with him just listening for over an hour. I don’t think he had any idea the impact he was making on my life at that moment during that therapy dog visit.
Isn’t it so easy to become complacent and go about our day to day activities not realizing we have the freedom to go about our daily activities because of soldiers like Mr. Jim? I left that visit thankful to be an American. Thankful to walk in freedom. I looked at that flag flying in front of the building as I left and it just felt different than when I walked in. She flew high. She flew strong. I never want to forget or take it for granted those that sacrificed their lives for mine. Those soldiers who continue to fight for my freedom. 
And those who are home now. May they never feel forgotten.
Thank you Mr. Jim for reminding me what a beautiful country I live in. The home of the free and the brave. Thank you for your service my friend. God Bless America!
Blessings to all on this great Independence Day!