An Eternal Duty

Last week’s Independence Day celebrations, today’s anti-communist protests in Cuba, and my own ponderings on the founding documents of the United States and writings from Thomas Jefferson got me thinking about the duties of defending freedom and liberty, as well as the careful difference between liberty and licentiousness which must be recognized, lest we becomeContinue reading “An Eternal Duty”

The 4th of July: American Independence Day

Today is the 4th of July, American Independence Day. On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted for Independence, and John Adams remarked the day would be remembered with fireworks and celebrations. The Declaration of Independence was dated July 4th, 1776 and was signed months later on August 2nd. Now, as that event continues to ringContinue reading “The 4th of July: American Independence Day”

Heroes From History: Paik Sun Yup

Paik Sun-Yup was a war hero for the Republic of Korea who served during the Korean War, reaching the rank of a four-star general during his military career. He also was the the chairman of the ROK Joint Chiefs of Staff and even worked as an ambassador for South Korea to France, Taiwan, Canada, andContinue reading “Heroes From History: Paik Sun Yup”

Heroes From History: Jesse Brown and Thomas Hudner

Human history is filled with stories about bravery, brotherhood, and the power of friendship. There are many instances throughout the existence of our species which exemplify these traits and inspire us to be better than we are. This is one of those tales, which despite not having the happiest of endings, speaks to the importanceContinue reading “Heroes From History: Jesse Brown and Thomas Hudner”

Diamond In the Sky: A Haiku Series

A few years ago, I wrote poem about the life cycle of a star. I called it, “Diamond In the Sky.” I tried to find that poem to republish it here, but it was on my previous computer which I reformatted and gave away a while back. I did not create a copy, unfortunately. However,Continue reading “Diamond In the Sky: A Haiku Series”

What Does It Mean to Be Brave?

“Brave” is an adjective which can be defined as “willing to do things which are difficult or dangerous without showing fear.” So, a person who is brave has the willingness to take on dangerous and/or difficult tasks without showing fear. Does that mean they are not afraid? Not necessarily. Of course, fear can be anContinue reading “What Does It Mean to Be Brave?”

History of Decoration Day (Memorial Day)

Memorial Day is a national holiday in the United States of America. It was originally known as Decoration Day until the First World War. While many States claim to have been the first to commemorate the holiday, and the exact year of its founding is disputed, most sources officially recognize the holiday as founded inContinue reading “History of Decoration Day (Memorial Day)”

The Trials of Humanity: A Haiku Series

As I was reflecting on how far Humanity has come and how much further we have yet to go, I pondered how corrupt empires and authoritarian regimes have risen up throughout history, time and time again. Every time, one way or another, they do seem to be self-defeating and lead their followers – who theyContinue reading “The Trials of Humanity: A Haiku Series”

Heroes From History: Valeria Panlilio

Valeria Panlilio was a spy and guerilla fighter for the Allies during the Second World War. Commonly referred to as “Colonel Yay,” she is considered to have been the brains behind the “Marking Guerillas,” a notorious resistance group in the Philippines which fought against the Japanese occupation during the war. She was born in Denver,Continue reading “Heroes From History: Valeria Panlilio”

Celebrating the Bow: National Archery Day

It’s National Archery Day! The second Saturday of May is recognized as National Archery Day, an obscure holiday meant to celebrate the iconic duo of the bow and arrow. Archery is the application of the bow in combat and recreation across history. An “archer” is an individual armed with and wielding a bow. People canContinue reading “Celebrating the Bow: National Archery Day”