An Inspiration…

Another battle for the sake of freedom was being fought.  Billowing smoke and flying debris fill the air as the enemy relentlessly continues to attack.  Circling above the chaos a bald eagle searches the scene below then suddenly disappears from sight. Within seconds, he emerges from the smoke triumphantly. Grasping our flag in his talons, the colors of freedom continue to wave, restoring hope and determination once again.

This vision was inspired only a few days after September 11, 2001.  Following his lifelong dream, our son Nathan, had just begun Basic Training the day before the attack.  A lot was on my mind as I tried to go to sleep one night... Wars past, war present and the price of freedom.  As I closed my eves and saw this dramatic scene unfold, it became my own determination as an artist and now a soldier's mom to put into living color this message of freedom.  The result was a 4 x 8 foot acrylic painting on board. 

Like that flag our nation may be a little tattered and worn, but it is definitely worth rescuing.  America has so much to be thankful for.  People in the military, our precious veterans, and those whose job it is to now serve and protect the citizens of this country have always had an understanding of what America is all about.  The rest of us have just enjoyed its benefits.

When I made a presentation of one of my prints to a local veterans organization, I looked out into the room filled with WW2 soldiers.  I saw past the years life had etched on their faces and the wrinkles that family and friends recognize them by today.  With a  little imagination I saw a room full of young men in uniform.  Even with the best training nothing could have prepared them for the realities of war, bur with great determination they fought for our freedom.  They sacrificed so that their children could have full tummies, play in their front yards without fear, and basically be spoiled rotten.

My desire is that this painting will serve as an inspiration for years to come, challenging us to appreciate and to hold with great DetermiNation to the freedom we enjoy here in America.