What does it mean to you?

This week we celebrated the 4th of July along with millions of other Americans. A group of us went to a small town called Steilacoom, and watched their parade march through' Main Street'. Just as in many other communities throughout the United States, thousands lined up to see the colorful event put on by the people of this community. This historical day brought to mind lessons learned in school about the beginnings of this young nation. The parade really made the day extra special and of course, gave an opportunity to visit and party with friends.

"Freedom". What a simple word but how meaningful it is. The definition is, 'An absence of undue restrictions and an opportunity to exercise one's right and powers. The right to exercise choice.' Seven letters form a word of such power that millions of people around the world yearn to have it and fight for it every day. Here in the United States we have the privilege of living it because of the many that sacrificed to make it happen.

I've never been much of a history buff but as I've matured my attitude has changed. My travels have taken me to various parts of the Southern and Eastern areas of the United States these past few years. Sometimes I have had the opportunity to visit museums and historical sites. These
excursions have had a profound effect on me.

Why? Well, as I have walked through these historical places, talking with various people who really know their history, I have come to realize how important each individual is. How the freedom to choose is a right and privilege that we must respect and preserve, not just for today but for future generations as well.

Our founding fathers are given great recognition for their courage and accomplishment but there are millions of others whose names you'll never know. Immigrants who fled oppression, tyranny, starvation, social injustice to come to a young country that promised hope, opportunity and
the freedom to pursue their dreams.

My father came to this country when he was 19 years old. Born in Sulmona, Italy, Angelo Vitone was the eldest son. My grandfather, Michael, had come into the United States and worked for a number of
years prior to sending for my father. Grandfather's dream was that one of his children would become an American citizen. He gave that gift of opportunity to my father. From what I was told, while Angelo was on the boat coming to the United States, grandfather was on a boat going home.
They were never to see each other again.

Angelo did all kinds of work. He did everything from working on a railroad in Maine, to learning how to make cocktails for the wealthy in Florida. From his stories and those of other members of the family I
learned early on that there is no 'menial job'. Every job has its place and its value. Father was able to gain financial independence, personal recognition and a sense of freedom that no one else in his immediate family was able to experience in Italy.

Is this a unique story? No, not really. Millions and millions of people can relate similar ones of their families and friends and I love it. One of the greatest strengths of our country is the tremendous
diversification of peoples and their cultures.

I recently read a statement, "Freedom is a jealous mistress. To possess her, we must reject her ancient competitor, slavery. She will not accept a divided allegiance." Freedom is not gained easily.
No'Freedom' is a delicate essence that must be cared for, nourished, supported and protected by those who know her value and do not desire to see her controlled and destroyed. There are always those 'stalkers' who would shred 'Freedom's' substance saying, "Good riddance. People need
to be told what to do and I'm just the person to do it!"

The holiday is past but the presentwell, let's not forget that we are custodians, custodians of "Freedom". How we take care of "Freedom" today creates our future for our tomorrows. "God Bless America and all of the other nations of the world who fight to be free. May "Freedom's Voice" sing throughout the world, blessing all who hear her music. Donna Seebo

A man asked his wife what she'd like for her birthday. "I'd love to be six again," she brightly replied.

SooooOn the morning of her birthday, he got her up bright and early and off they went to a local theme park. What a day! He put her on every ride in the park; the Death Slide, the Screaming Loop, the Wall of Fear - everything there was!

Wow! Five hours later she staggered out of the theme park, her head reeling and her stomach upside down. Right to a McDonald's they went where her husband ordered a Big Mac for her along with extra fries and refreshing chocolate shake. Then it was off to a movie - the latest Star Wars epic, and hot dogs, popcorn, Pepsi Cola and M&M's. What a fabulous adventure!

Finally she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed into bed. He leaned over and lovingly asked, "Well, dear, what was it like being six again?"

With one eye opened, she hissed, "YOU IDIOT, I MEANT MY DRESS SIZE!"