Freedom, Oh Freedom!

When I look at the picture of my dad in his army uniform I see freedom.  You see my dad didn’t choose the military, the military chose him.  I know what you’re thinking, but R.J. how is that freedom? Hold on. Hold on.  Let me explain.

My father was drafted during the Vietnam War.  A teenager when he left home, a teenager that was leaving home to fight for the country he was born instead of pursuing a college degree.  After he was discharged, he resumed working full time, and began raising a family.

He instilled freedom in the three children he raised.  The freedom to be what we wanted to be, with one catch.  You must attend college FIRST.  Centuries ago we had ancestors that were not afforded the opportunity of freedom of speech, education, or rights.

The opportunities that I sometimes take for granted would not be available to me unless there were others before me that fought for freedom.  We have come so far, but yet still have so far to go.  At least I can be #SteeleThankful for the veterans that continue to fight for freedom, freedom for us all.   One day my child, one day, we will all be free.  Free of the bondage of the mind, body, and soul.

What are you #SteeleThankful for?