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Is It True--Red, White and Blue? |
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We cannot step out of doors these days without a bombardment of displayed patriotism.� We see American flags on cars and front porches.� They hang high on hotel and shop windows.� In addition, a great influx of red, white and blue has emerged in our daily clothing.� Many Americans now proudly adorn themselves with patriotic ties and buttons.� As all the generations and age groups of our society hoist our national colors, we must consider the meaning and message of our displayed patriotism.� |
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� ��������� To properly honor our heroes, our support must not be purely cosmetic.� Our president has urged Americans to do something in behalf of thier communities and the nation. We must consider what we can do to make a difference around us.��� We do not have to turn on the television to see folks in need.� Right here in our communities, right now, people are hurting.� Living Interfaith Network (LINK) is a non-profit organization in Hampton Roads committed to helping people in need.� They work and have volunteer opportunities in local food pantries, homeless shelters, clothing closets, toy drives, mentoring programs, adult daycares, welfare to work programs and more. LINK's volunteers have already assisted thousands of our friends and neighbors.�� Still, many more need our help.�� |
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With seasonal temperatures dropping, homeless shelters fill up quickly.� Donated foods are a blessing to shelters; however, consider what will happen if there are no volunteers to cook it.� The time we give to those in need can be equally, if not more precious, than a monetary sum.� Please contact LINK of Hampton Roads at (757) 595-1953 or on the web Http://users.erols.com/linknn, to find out about the many volunteer opportunities.���� |
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� Recently, my young son and I had the opportunity to volunteer at an overnight homeless shelter.� For us, this time together helping other people proved to be a wonderful and priceless experience.�� Humility, empathy and love for all people were lessons we learned and shared.� Those volunteer hours helped shape his character and further enhance my own.�� |
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Making a difference in the world around us empowers us as human beings.�� It is easy to attach a patriotic symbol, cosmetically, to ourselves.� We could honor the memories of the fine men and women who gave their lives for us by giving a little of ourselves.�� A few hours of volunteering is a small price to pay to continue the legacy of giving started by our heroes.� Imagine if for every Star-Spangled Banner flying today, there were a LINK volunteer behind it, working to make a difference in the quality of life in Hampton Roads.� That would be the greatest tribute we could give all those affected by the tragedies, and the best message we could send to those individuals who wish to harm our way of life.�� |
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Index To Stories |
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Back to Mr.D's English Class |
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