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 
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
This reminds me of a quote by Eleanor Roosevelt:
“Lest I keep my complacent way I must remember somewhere out there a person died for me today. As long as there must be war, I ask and I must answer, was I worth dying for?”
Wow, Sarah! That’s a great quote. I hadn’t heard that one before. Thanks for sharing that. I’ve heard other wise words from Eleanor but not this one. Very cool and very appropriate. Thanks for stopping by. Just back from vacay and posting again soon. Blessings to you…drew
Love the post, Drew. Saving Private Ryan is one of my favorite movies – the lessons delivered are priceless.
I’m really enjoying your blog – keep up the great work!
Ed
Ed, thanks for the positive comments, bro. I hope all is well w/ you, friend. I’ve enjoyed following your thoughts, also. I’m just back fresh from vacay wrapping my head around some new concepts. More soon. Blessings to you….drew