United States National Anthem

I am ashamed to say that before September 11, 2001 this was pretty much just a song. I appreciated that it was the national anthem, and I respected that, put my hand over my heart and stood as it was played. I thought I knew.

Just after the terrorist attacks on 9/11 it came into more focus, and like a lot of people I cried as it played, I listened with new ears and it did have more meaning.

I thought I was pretty savey as far as politics was concerned, I paid attention and I voted, I could even hold a conversation about politics, kind of. It was pathetic.

I began to learn more, and pay attention more, and listen more. I can hold better conversations on politics and religion then I could before - not because I know more necessarily - but because I now know that I don't know it all. I enjoy the debate. I love the act of finding answers. I am more passionate about the quest and less arrogant.

With this I also have a better understanding of what this song truly means, what it stands for, and I'm very proud to say that even now, almost 9 years after 9/11 the national anthem gives me goosebumps. I hear it almost daily, and it still brings to the forefront of my thinking just how lucky we are to live here and how blessed we are to have our soldiers fighting to keep this country free, and to help others obtain the same gift.

And will continue to learn and grow as a member of this country - I will not be a sheep, blindly following, or just simply exist.

I thank all those who serve - past, present, and future!