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Free to do
Off the Wall
July 2, 2009
How often do we turn on the television to watch
the news only to learn what is happening in other parts of the
world? Most likely the media will highlight events that will
keep your attention. Rarely do I see anything that is happening
in Africa, Iran or Somalia that is uplifting.
A good many people who are viewing their high definition
televisions on large format mechanisms are sitting in the comforts
of their living or recreation rooms thinking little of the freedoms
they are enjoying. Some may be sipping on an alcoholic cocktail,
smoothie, or stuffing chips into their mouths. Lovebirds may
be cuddled on a sofa viewing the tube from across a dimly-lit
room; the whole family may be scraping food off their paper plates
lounging in front of the television set ingesting massive amounts
of food. These are all acts of freedom that most of us do without
giving it so much as a thought while others may not have any
of these privileges.
I sometimes wonder if we truly understand how we
are blessed living where we do.
Now, I have lived here in Latrobe over 35 years.
One man told me he has lived here 77 years, and others their
whole lives. Some have moved here and like it because of the
good schools, park accessibility and recreation. A fellow from
Swissvale told me recently that he would like to move to Latrobe
to frequent the convent of Holy Family Church.
These, too, are acts of freedom. No one took them
by the arms and dragged them here and told them they must submit
to uncouth traditions of rulers who dictate every action or movement.
No, we are one city of many throughout this wonderful
United States of America where freedoms are played out on a day
to day basis. Just looking out my bedroom window, for example,
I see one woman pushing a baby carriage with five children surrounding
her. Looking out another window, I observe two teens walking
down toward Legion Keener Park with black bags hung off their
shoulders. And still off to the right, heading in my direction
is a young man walking his little pudgy dog, stopping at grassy
areas and telephone poles. These sightings aren't unusual in
the land of the free. A matter of fact, in most cases, residents
of Latrobe and nearby communities exiting their homes think little
of stepping outside their front doors and strolling down the
street.
In a matter of days, the whole country will be taking
part in the annual celebration of July 4th. People will be traveling
to be together with their families. Parades will be held.
Booths and amusement rides will be set up in Legion Keener Park
for the enjoyment of area residents. And organizations, such
as the Holy Name Society of Holy Family Church, 1200, Ligonier
St., Latrobe, will hold its Annual Pancake Breakfast from 7 a.m.
until 10 a.m. in the parish's social hall. In addition, hot dogs
and sauerkraut, along with bottled water may be purchased.
Many thoughts come to me when I think of the subject
of hand. What does freedom mean to me? What comes to mind are:
fishing where I have permission, worship, pray, and vote. I can
be myself, share Christ's love with others. Finally, I can read
what I want, dress as I so choose, and aid those who may need
a helping hand including the homeless.
But the bottom line is this. There are so many things
we do in our country that aren't permitted in other parts of
the globe. Be appreciative that not only God created us in this
country, made us who we are, but for all He has given us as well.
It's easy sometimes to take our lifestyles for granted. I include
myself among the guilty. May we never forget who fought and continues
to fight for our freedoms, for without them, we wouldn't have
this holiday.
Paul J. Volkmann
Written: May 23, 2009
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