Today, I was going through some old vinyl albums. You know those 33 1/3, 78's, and 45 RPM's. Those old ones that most young people do not know what you are talking about.
I forgot which albums I had and I decided to play some of them. One of them was by Tex Ritter, a country western singer and actor. He is also the father of the late actor, John Ritter.
The album was Sweet Land of Liberty
On the album was this narrative by Tex Ritter of a letter he had written to his sons.
In this time in our country, the letter is so appropriate. I know it's long, but I hope you will take time to read it.
September 1966
Dear boys
Now that you both are away at school preparing yourselves for your life's work,
remember I always want you to make your own decisions.
However I thought I'd jot down a few thoughts that you might consider.
When the constitutional convention was finally adjourned in Philadelphia,
Benjamin Franklin's first remark as he left the hall was spoken to a small group of by-standers.
He said, "We have given you a republic, see if you can hold it."
Tom, within two years you will be of voting age. You John a couple of years later.
Study your political candidates, study the issues.
Vote for those who believe in the wisdom of the framers of our constitution.
Within a decade or so the torch will be passed to your generation.
Take a firm grip and hold it high.
If we of this generation have veered from the course, if we have been inclined to consider the constitution an outmoded instrument of government;
Change the course, head it back to where it belongs.
And avoid the troublesome waters.
It was not Socialism that made this country the greatest nation in the history of the world. It was not Communism.
It was what Franklin said it was back there in 1787.
A republic - A good old fashion capitalist republic.
It's up to your generation to keep it what way.
As young boys you both traveled over many parts of our country with Mom and me. We tried to instill in you not only love of and pride in your country, but to appreciate the beauty of America. I trust you never lose it.
When you travel, look for that beauty. It's there some place.
Someone might say, "Well yes in the New England woods in the fall,
Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, the Great Smokies;
but what about a Kansas wheatfield what's so beautiful about that."
My answer, it's there my friend. If you doubt me, ask the farmer who owns it. Looks kinda pretty to him.
There is beauty in all America. If you look for it boys you'll find it.
As you journey through your college years and throughout your life,
Take a tip from President Truman -
Become familiar with the history of your country. If you know the story of America, you will understand and appreciate the glory of America.
And with President Kennedy -
Ask not what your country can do for you
Ask what you can do for your country.
The United States of America - this powerful land, this beautiful land,
Yes this republic - this sweet land - This sweet land of liberty.
Love Dad
The words are so true. We live in the greatest country in the world. I love America and I'm so proud of my country. We need to hold the torch high and honor our country and the beauty of it.
It's a country founded on God and His principles. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!
2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
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