Thank all of you who helped to make it such a special evening. Some helped with planning & decorations. Some served punch and beijinhos de coco; while others helped make the food, including meals for my family. Some recorded the event with pictures and video, and others sang special music, including Katrina’s impromptu choir’s presentation of “God Bless Our Kari.” Many helped with the clean up afterward. Each and every act of service was a tremendous help, blessing and encouragement. Thank you.

I also with to thank those who made the evening special simply by their presence. Several of you traveled long distances only to stay a short time, then travel home again late at night. Those from church were weary after the week’s preparation for Saturday’s Internation Give Away. Others had physical limitations, etc. and endured much to attend. Please know that I recognize the time, energy, and resources you all gave to be there on Friday evening. Know also that your sacrifice of love made your presence all that much sweeter. Thank you.

A special thanks to my oldest brother and the Steven and Carol Celarier for the gift of Fred’s presence. Seeing him stand up front brought tears to my eyes. You’ll never know what a delight his “presence” brought to my evening.

Last, but certainly not least, I wish to thank my family who gave of themselves in unmeasureable ways to help me celebrate this special event. I love you all deeply and praise God for you. Thank you for the numerous ways you demonstrate your love toward me.

I do not want to be negligent of the day’s significance nor take for granted the rights, freedoms and privileges granted to me as an American; so before the day ends, I wish to thank the families of the men and women who have given their lives in service to their country.  The high price of their death validates and dictates the tremendous worth of America’s freedom.  Thank you.  May I, may we as Americans not take our freedom for granted.

I confess that I do not always like being “different” as an American living in Brazil, but I have also never felt more proud to be an American than when there.  My blue eyes and American accent mark strong differences from those around me, but so also do the privileges, opportunities, and freedoms available to me as an American.  May my loyalties be as easily identified as my heritage.

Brazilians have taught me a lot about patriotism.  They are passionate about Brazil and fiercely loyal to her (especially the soccer team!).  They literally show their true colors by displaying the flag and its colors everywhere and on everything: shirts, shoes, street walls, etc.

How very different from the U.S. where too often we see people burning the flag, the emblem the very freedom which allows them to do so.  I do not deny that we have, at times, erred and struggled at times as country, but many of our internal struggles result from the delicate balance of freedom democracy offers.  Instead of criticizing our country and its leaders, may we strive to work together to preserve our unity as a nation and rightly honor our governing authorities.  Today especially may we honor the men and women who served the country by the greatest means possible, by giving their lives for her.

Long may she continue to stand.  God bless the U.S.A.!