I was prompted this morning to read again the challenges to all Americans found in Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, challenges that seem so appropriate and relevant as we pause in the United States on this Memorial Day to remember the sacrifices of so many brave men and women.
“But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate—we can not consecrate—we can not hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”
(I captured this image of a hyper-vigilant injured Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in November 2014 shortly before it was rescued. You can learn more about the rescue and see additional images in a posting from that period entitled “Rescue of an injured Bald Eagle.”)
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Thank you for the reiteration of the Gettysburg Address, Mike, and reminder of Memorial Day salute to our brave men and women of past wars. Also appreciated the story of the bald eagle struggle here, and in the link–great event to witness with the injury of our national bird, and another brave officer. Enjoyed the fantastic photos. Happy Memorial Day, Mike–
Thanks so much, Jet. The Address is short enough that I considered including the entire text. I wanted, however, to focus readers’ attention on the reality that all of us share in a collective responsibility of safeguarding our freedom. I am saddened by the divisiveness in so much of our political discourse and hope that at least for a day we can set aside our differences.
A great post. Was good to read that again and the picture went right with it. A beautiful bald eagle. Glad he was rescued.
I am saddened to inform you that the day after the eagle was rescued a decision was made to euthanize the majestic bird as a result of the severity of its injuries. Needless to say I was heartbroken when they informed me and I still feel some pain when I remember my initial joy and the subsequent despair.
Awww…. 😦 That is sad, but those decisions sometimes need to be made. Makes the picture more special, bittersweet.
As a child growing up in southeastern Pennsylvania, we memorized Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address from “the world will little note”…and it has always had a special place in my heart. My Father was a Civil War buff and we spent many memorable times visiting Gettysburg. So much so, that I lived in Gettysburg for several years in my late twenties and was within walking distance of the battlefield. Thank-you so much for this beautiful post and photo of the noble Eagle. May your holiday be all that you wish it to be and more!
Dear Michael, Thank you for your service ! Your incredible eye for capturing nature and your friendship!!!!!!
Perfect!