Patriotic Me

Growing up in the suburbs of Youngstown I was taught what was meant to be a true patriot in the sense of the term. Each day I went to school we would stand and pledge our allegience to the American flag. Every 4th of July we would hang our flags to fly high and proud and each day I learned to love my country more and more. In the 12th grade I entered a "Voice of Democracy" writing competition that was given by the local Veterans of Foriegn War. With the inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and my love of the American dream I placed second. I decided I wanted to follow in the footsteps of my father and my Uncle Tony so I joined the US Air Force and spent time learning the life of a soldier. Unfortunately I was unable to continue my commitment but I will never regret the pride I felt to be a part of something so wonderful but so challanging. A few years later I married and spent three years as a miltary wife . That was one of the toughest jobs a woman can ever hold besides being a soldier. I saw many soldiers in harms way and lost a few friends but I never lost site of the values of being a proud American.

I have learned over the years that no matter come what may and how hard life can be keep going the distance and never give up. God only gives us as much a we can handle and believe me I've had my share in my lifetime but have been able to overcome much and be here to share in a wonderful life with my family.. Many years ago I wrote a poem called "Never Give Up" I hope the words can help those who needs some inspiration in their life....Peace and Blessings...

When life's troubles have got you down

Hold your head up and never give up

When you find that you just can't go on

Be strong and never give up

When you are alone and need a friend

When you wish your life would end

Hold your head up and never give up

Remember these three words

And live by them everyday

For someday you will thank me

For the words I always say

"Never Give Up"

Written By: KA Phillips @ 2011