Freedom is not Free!
During patriotic holidays like the 4th of July–Independence Day I often reflect on the ending of the movie Saving Private Ryan. It’s a sobering film about a rescue mission during WWII set against the backdrop of the invasion on the beaches of Normandy. This rescue mission is not like other rescue missions, though.
In this case, the mission is a young man, Private James Ryan. He has lost all three of his brothers to the war and is the only surviving son of his family. Shortly after realizing that his brothers have died in battle, the Army dispatches a special squad of men to go and retrieve PVT Ryan in order to preserve his family line and prevent further tragedy.
What always gets me is the very end of this picture. The last minute contains a message that I think our country needs to hear these days. In a minute you’ll get a chance to view the clip I’m speaking of.
The message surrounds the concept of earning freedom and making the most of it. I understand that not all of us are veterans or have fought in a war overseas. I get the fact that many of us have not had to take up arms for the cause of freedom or the preservation of peace. Regardless of whether you’ve served or not, all Americans get to enjoy the freedoms of this great land. And I believe that all too often we take our freedom for granted.
Considering all this, here are a few questions to ponder.
- Upon reflecting on your freedom and the history of how it came to be, have you earned it?
- Are you a responsible citizen who is making your life count and leaving things better than they were?
- Do you honor the flag and service members who are protecting what it means?
- Do you believe that our freedom as United States citizens is worth protecting?
Think about this as you watch this dramatic clip. It encompasses the last battle of the movie and ends with some profound dialogue between main characters Tom Hanks and Matt Damon. Watch HERE!
Freedom is not free. Have you earned it? Make it count. Back with you soon….drew 
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