Blessings of Liberty

Each year on the 14th of this month we observe Flag Day. This likely is a curious holiday from the viewpoint of most other countries that see the United States draped in red, white and blue. It's uniquely American to fly a national flag as much as we do on holidays and at our homes, work, schools and sporting events. Even our National Anthem is a song about our "Star Spangled Banner." The American flag appears on everything from clothing to bumper stickers.

At the world headquarters of Alticor, the company I co-founded with Jay Van Andel, we fly 50 flags of different countries where we have international affiliates. But on U.S. holidays such as the Fourth of July and Flag Day, we raise all American flags on those 50 flag poles. What a beautiful sight!

What is it about that fabric of red, white and blue that can cause a war veteran to choke up as our flag passes in a parade, stir optimism in a crowd at the start of a ball game, arouse unity at a Fourth of July celebration, or inspire reverence when draped over the coffin of a fallen leader? For me, it's what our flag represents. Wrapped in that flag is God's gift of liberty.

Our flag was created more than 225 years ago to represent a people who declared their God-given right of liberty. And that field of stars with red and white stripes has stood for freedom ever since. Each time Americans have fought and sacrificed to defend our freedoms, our flag has been the banner they carried and followed.

So I'm proud that we in America observe Flag Day. I'm even more proud to see Americans fly their flags every day. I believe in affirming every day, proudly and enthusiastically, that life in America under God is a positive experience.

We've seen in recent turmoil around the world that creating a free society is far from easy and never to be taken for granted. What seems as natural as breathing to us actually comes through sacrifice and struggle. What we take for granted is still only a dream for many people around the world.

Unfortunately, because God has blessed us with so much for so long, we can tend to take our freedoms and abundance for granted. Every generation must learn anew to appreciate the rights and privileges that a free society provides.

Our flag reminds me of the Constitution and our new National Constitution Center in Philadelphia (come and see it - it's worth the trip). It's a center dedicated to honoring and explaining the U.S. Constitution, its history, and its clear relevance in today's society.

And finally, each time we catch a glimpse of Old Glory waving in the breeze it can be a reminder for us to say a quick prayer, "Thank you, God, that I am free."

If you're interested, there is more information about:
The most important event of all time and
The most important Book of all time.

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Rich DeVos is the former chairman of Gospel Communications. He is also the author of "Hope From My Heart: Ten Lessons for Life," co-founder of Amway Corp., and owner and chairman of the NBA's Orlando Magic.