America the Beautiful





As we put away the fireworks and fold the flags, let’s continue to honor the sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom while cherishing those who are preserving our freedom. And most importantly, may we remember to honor God, who bestowed our freedom from our very beginning.

 We probably all agree that our nation faces enormous financial, political, and spiritual challenges. But when war, disaster, or desperation strikes, Americans rise. 

Remember America the Beautiful? The final two verses still resonate as deeply today as they did in 1913.





O beautiful for heroes proved 
In liberating strife,


Who more than self their country loved,











And mercy more than life.

 America! America!
May God thy gold refine

Till all success be nobleness,

And ev'ry gain divine!



O Beautiful for patriot dream

That sees beyond the years


Thine alabaster cities gleam,

Undimmed by human tears!








America the Beautiful by Katharine Lee Bates 1913

Image Credits:
 http://blog.usnavyseals.com/uploads/wounded-soldiers.jpg; http://www.state.nj.us/military/veterans/journal/winter2005/vetsday6.jpg;
http://francishare.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/mnpa_auction_61.jpg 
Ray Norwood, American flag photo.--this flag hung over US Capitol, a gift from his father.


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