By Bob HOUGHTALING America is a work in progress. Ever evolving, the country was built by Indigenous People, slaves, immigrants, religious seekers, those looking for fortune and the forcibly absorbed (Mexicans for example). We are an extremely unique
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America is a work in progress. Ever evolving, the country was built by Indigenous People, slaves, immigrants, religious seekers, those looking for fortune and the forcibly absorbed (Mexicans for example). We are an extremely unique place where many folks from different backgrounds find success. We are most successful when embracing people from a myriad of backgrounds. The nation certainly has its foibles and all too often these are based on race, class and religion. The poem “Tears of Liberty” speaks to our highest and our lowest beliefs. Mixed in is a sense of correction and hope. When you celebrate this year’s July 4th let’s take a brief moment to reflect upon the gifts we have. Let’s also promise to do just a little bit better. God Bless America!
Tears of Liberty
The tears of Liberty
Dropped towards the flames
Of the torch intended
To welcome the names
From weary souls searching
Across distant shores
The huddled masses
Those tired and poor
The tears of Liberty
Cry out in deep grief
Demanding that Americans
Exercise their beliefs
That we are all neighbors
From backgrounds galore
This nation she welcomes
The tired and poor
The tears of Liberty
Are merciful filled
For as her light shines
Great sorrows are stilled
Raise up your voices
Shed one tear more
Out of love for the hopeful
The tired and poor
The tears of Liberty
Will constantly flow
Until the day comes
When everyone knows
That the land of the brave
At its very true core
Is one that embraces
The tired and poor
Let those tears of Liberty
Now fuel the fire
That travels the country
With deepest desire
Showing bountiful mercy
To the land of the free
Setting an example
For all men to see
Emma Lazarus wrote “The New Colossus” to raise money for the statue of Liberty’s pedestal. Originally written in1883, the poem still evokes powerful emotions today. Here’s hoping that the poem, and statue it represents, continue to offer hope for those seeking new shores. Bob Houghtaling is an American born citizen whose father served as a United States Marine during the Korean War. He has also worked in the Human Services for more than 35 years.
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