Every year onĀ June 14th, Americans across the country pause to celebrateĀ Flag Dayāa tribute to one of our nationās most enduring symbols: the United States flag.
š The History Behind Flag Day
Flag Day commemorates the adoption of theĀ Stars and StripesĀ as the official flag of the United States onĀ June 14, 1777, by the Second Continental Congress. The resolution stated:
āResolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.ā
Though itās not a federal holiday, Flag Day holds deep patriotic significance. It was officially established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916, and later President Harry Truman signed it into law in 1949 as a national observance.
šØ What the Flag Represents
The U.S. flag is more than just cloth and color. It stands forĀ freedom, resilience,and unity. Each element of the flag carries meaning:
Red: Valor and bravery
White: Purity and innocence
Blue: Vigilance, perseverance, and justice
Stars and Stripes: The 50 states and the original 13 colonies
šŗšø How Americans Celebrate
Flag Day is a chance to reflect on our shared values and national heritage. Here are a few ways people honor the flag:
Flying the American flagĀ at homes, businesses, and public buildings
Community paradesĀ andĀ patriotic ceremonies
Educational eventsĀ in schools about the flagās history and symbolism
VolunteeringĀ or supporting veteransā groups and civic causes
In some places likeĀ Quincy, Massachusetts, andĀ Waubeka, WisconsinĀ (the hometown of the āFather of Flag Day,ā Bernard J. Cigrand), celebrations include festivals, speeches, and pageantry.
š A Day to Reflect
Flag Day reminds us of the sacrifices made to protect the freedoms we enjoy and the unity that binds us as a nation. Whether itās by displaying the flag, teaching children its history, or simply taking a quiet moment to reflect, June 14th is a day for all Americans to come together in gratitude and pride.
Happy Flag Day! Long may she wave. šŗšø
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St. Patrickās Day is celebrated around the world as a vibrant festival of Irish culture, marked by parades, green attire, and festive spirits. But how did this global celebration come to be? Here’s a historical look at the key milestones that shaped St. Patrickās Day into the cultural phenomenon we know today.
Why Do We Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day, observed annually on March 17, honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. St. Patrick was a 5th-century Christian missionary credited with converting the Irish population to Christianity. According to legend, he used the shamrock as a metaphor for the Holy Trinity, which is why the symbol is now synonymous with Irish identity.
Although St. Patrickās Day began as a solemn religious occasion to commemorate his death, it has since evolved into a celebration of Irish heritage and culture, celebrated far beyond Ireland.
How It All Started
The origins of St. Patrick’s Day date back to the early 17th century when the Catholic Church declared it an official feast day. Initially, the day served as a holy day of obligation, meaning church attendance was mandatory for Catholics. Since it fell during the season of Lent, rules around fasting and abstinence were typically lifted for the day, allowing for a modest celebration.
The holiday remained rooted in religious tradition for centuries, with Irish communities commemorating it primarily through church services and small gatherings.
The Spread of St. Patrickās Day Celebrations
The Role of Irish Immigrants
The transformation of St. Patrickās Day into the festival we recognize today is largely credited to Irish immigrants in the United States. During the 18th and 19th centuries, millions of Irish people migrated to America, bringing their traditions with them.
The first documented St. Patrickās Day parade took place in Boston in 1737, and New York City followed suit in 1762. These parades became a way for Irish immigrants to celebrate their heritage, express pride in their culture, and build solidarity in their new communities.
Cultural Evolution
By the late 19th century, the parades and festivities became less about religious observance and more about showcasing Irish identity. Cities across the U.S. embraced the parades, and symbols like the color green and shamrocks gained prominence. Chicago, famously, began dyeing its river green in 1962āa tradition that continues to this day.
Going Global
While St. Patrickās Day originated in Ireland and grew in America, it has since become a global celebration. Countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK now host large parades and festivals, while landmarks around the worldāfrom the Sydney Opera House to the Eiffel Towerāare lit green on March 17. Even Japan and Singapore have joined the festivities, blending Irish culture with local traditions in unique ways.
The Contemporary St. Patrickās Day
Today, St. Patrickās Day is less about religion and more about celebrating Irish culture and community. Itās a day marked by parades, traditional music, Irish dancing, and, of course, plenty of food and drinks. While the modern-day celebrations have taken on a more commercialized flavor, the spirit of the holiday remains the sameāa tribute to Ireland and its rich cultural legacy.
Whether you’re in Ireland, the U.S., or any corner of the globe, St. Patrickās Day serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of Irish culture on the world stage. Itās a day to embrace your roots, connect with your heritage, and celebrate the diverse community that embodies the spirit of St. Patrick himself. So put on your green attire, raise a pint of Guinness, and join in the festivitiesābecause on March 17th, everyone is Irish! SlĆ”inte! (Cheers!) As St. Patrick’s Day continues to evolve and spread across the world, it serves as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and celebration. It’s a reminder that no matter where we come from or where we end up, our traditions and customs can unite us in meaningful ways.
Furthermore, St. Patrick’s Day has also become an important platform for promoting diversity and inclusivity. In recent years, there has been a push to make the holiday more inclusive for all cultures and communities, acknowledging the contributions of different groups to Irish heritage. This has led to celebrations that showcase not just traditional Irish elements, but also multicultural experiences and perspectives.
So whether you’re celebrating with green beer in an Irish pub or attending a parade in your local city, take a moment to appreciate the cultural significance of St. Patrick’s Day. It’s more than just wearing green and drinking Guinnessāitās about honoring our shared human experience and embracing diversity in all its forms.
If you would rather immerse yourself in a good book this St. Patricks Day instead of drinking a green beer, we have a list for you! Whether you’re an Irish culture enthusiast, an avid reader, or a writer looking for inspiration, this curated list will bring the charm, history, and magic of Ireland straight to your hands.
1. āHow the Irish Saved Civilizationā by Thomas Cahill
This fascinating read explores the critical role Irish monks and scribes played in preserving Western civilization after the fall of the Roman Empire. It’s a great choice to understand the historical importance of Ireland and its cultural contributions, tying to the spirit of celebrating Irish heritage on St. Patrickās Day.
2. āSt. Patrick of Ireland: A Biographyā by Philip Freeman
Dive into the life of St. Patrick himself with this detailed biography. Philip Freeman unpacks the real story of the man behind the legend, shedding light on his missionary work, his struggles, and his impact on Irish culture.
3. āAngelaās Ashesā by Frank McCourt
Although not directly about St. Patrickās Day, this Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir is a heartwarming and heart-wrenching tale of growing up poor in Ireland. It captures the resilience, humor, and spirit of the Irish, making it a perfect read for the day.
4. āIrelandā by Frank Delaney
This sweeping historical novel takes readers on a rich journey through Irish history, blending folklore, tradition, and storytelling. Perfect for readers who enjoy tales that capture the heart and soul of Ireland.
5. āThe Wearing of the Green: A History of St. Patrick’s Dayā by Mike Cronin and Daryl Adair
If you want an academic lens on how St. Patrick’s Day became a global celebration, this book is a must-read. It traces the evolution of the day from being a religious feast to a worldwide cultural celebration of Irish heritage.
6. āThe Book of Kellsā (Various editions available)
Celebrate the artistry and heritage of Ireland with one of its most iconic historical treasures, The Book of Kells. While itās not a standard novel, its pages are filled with intricate illuminations and representations of Irish monastic culture ā a beautiful tribute to Ireland’s history.
7. Irish Poetry Collections
For writers and lovers of lyrical beauty, an anthology of Irish poetry is a perfect pick. Collections featuring W.B. Yeats, Seamus Heaney, and other Irish poets embody the soul of Ireland and offer inspiration steeped in the countryās rich literary tradition.
8. āMaeve Binchy Collectionā
Renowned Irish author Maeve Binchy’s novels, like Circle of Friends or Tara Road, are brimming with Irish charm, relatable characters, and warm storytelling. Theyāre perfect if youāre in the mood for heartfelt tales with a sprinkle of Irish wit.
Whether you’re honoring Irish heritage, celebrating St. Patrick himself, or just getting lost in the landscape of Ireland’s culture and history, these St. Patrick’s-inspired reads are guaranteed to add depth and joy to the day. Grab a book, pour yourself a pint of Guinness or a hot cup of tea, and enjoy these captivating tales!
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If you are nursing a broken heart, the arrival of Valentineās Day can feel like sand in a paper cut. The prospect of finding love for anyone trying to heal from an ended relationship or take the first steps to open up to love again can seem daunting. This is especially true in a world where dating is dominated by the presence of often futile dating apps, a system that has made the process of meeting new people feel more and more unintuitive for many. If you are looking for a way to feel inspired or comforted rather than downtrodden this Valentineās Day, Richter Publishing has an array of books to help satisfy a medley of V-Day preferences, from self-help dating advice, to fiction and poetry, to love-themed coloring books! Here are some books to help you through the process of mending a broken heart:
Self-Help:
5 Steps to Heal a Broken Heart, by Tara Richter
PARKER PATHWAYS BOOK REVIEW: If you want to know how to reconnect with your inner ābroken heartā this is the book for you. Everyone has a definition about a broken heart, some say it is sadness, others say it is something I have to āget on with my life.ā But the broken heart remains broken as if you are undergoing forever Post-Traumatic Stress. The truth is you have to get down and dirty and build a new pathway. It starts out by digging ādeepā into your being in order to come out at the other end of the tunnel and become what I call the āReal You.ā Moments in this book border on powerful discoveries that appear simple, but as in all nature simple survives to overcome adversity. If you follow the rules in this book, you will rise to the center of your consciousness in the āReal You.ā Once you have accomplished this, you will be continually speaking from your full heart and not a remaining broken one. I recommend this book for your reading. I give a big hug or otherwise called āmarasmusā to you and your family. These rules will get your brain working on a happy healing, love and new start on the pathway āto heal a broken heart.ā ~ By Dr. Winn Parker Ph.D. M.T. American Society of Clinical Pathology
Call Out by Senada Cindy Nuredin
Life is hard, but love is harder. If you are still struggling with loving yourself or finding true love, then grab a bottle of wine, get this book and settle in for a wild ride that will change your life!
10 Rules to Survive the Dating Jungle, by Tara Richter
You’ve entered the dating Jungle! I know, it’s a bit scary out here. Doesn’t matter if you have just got divorced, had a bad break-up or starting to date for the first time. It’s not easy venturing out into the dating world. Within the book you’ll discover how to become more approachable, learn the art of flirting & how to keep your dating anxiety under control. Use the 10 Rules to take control of your dating life today!
As seen on āAlmost Royalā a BBC original series.
The Dating Jungle: Adult Coloring Book, by Tara Richter
This hilarious adult coloring book is the fourth in theĀ Dating JungleĀ series. The author, Tara Richter, gives real-world dating advice to help you navigate the territory of popular dating apps like Tinder. For example, when is it okay to send a dick pic? Each very helpful tip has a corresponding therapeutic coloring page to help you de-stress from annoying dates. So pour yourself a glass of wine, get your colored pencils out, and have some fun! Post your finished pictures on social media with the hashtag #datingjunglecoloringbook and share with others in the jungle.
Everyone needs time to heal. If you arenāt quite ready to take action into a new phase and open your heart to dating again, check out these beautifully written, heartfelt and tragic fiction and poetry books that can help pluck the sadness from your heartstrings.
Fiction:
A Portion of the Eternal, by Maurice Jovan Billington
“A Portion of the Eternal” is a hauntingly beautiful novel about the mysterious death of a young boy and his girlfriend Liv who must continue to believe in love even in the wake of her overwhelming sadness. Winner of the Fade in Screenwriting Award for Best Thriller for his screenplay “9” and a poet, “This Plane Is Going To Crash,” author Maurice Jovan Billington’s story draws a reader in as a new student arrives in Liv’s life bringing with him, redemption, revenge, or possibly both.
This Plane is Going to Crash, by Maurice Joven Billington
A collection of poems about the debris left in the wake of love and desire.
Chasing Rainbows: Parallel Shades of Normality, by Prisqua Camiul
When life hurts this much thereās got to be a happily ever after, the light at the end of the tunnel, a reason for everything, hasnāt there? This is the story about two women who fight through the struggles of life in two completely different ways. One woman strives to keep a desperate grip on reality whilst the other immerses herself in a virtual escape to deal with her pain. From being a mother to finding love on the other side of the world, the story will take you on an emotional roller-coaster. Two worlds collide as we travel through time with them, sharing the laughter and tears.
Millennial Marriages: A Military Relationship, by Jarron Webster
When young military couples are faced with the prospect of separation, sometimes they jump into a marriage to avoid the pain of being apart. In “Millennial Marriages: A Military Relationship,” Jarron Webster explores the ins and outs of Mark and Wendy’s journey through their first years after “I do.” This means relocation as Mark is sent to multiple new bases for his job in the military, decisions about family planning, finances, and learning how to maintain trust when things get rocky. Can the couple stay true to themselves, and to each other, as they navigate the obstacle course that is a military marriage?
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Reviewed by Sandra Cruz for Reader Views (12/2024)
Earth is a desolate and dark planet filled with unnatural life and hardly any humans in āThe Man from Rock Bottomā by Stephen Eric Johnson. After humanity nearly destroys itself an alien society, the Pan-Galactic Empire comes to its rescue. Scintillant Camor, Master of the Ministry of Life, is the only one who believes they are worth saving and creates Sunflower City as a safe haven. It must succeed at all costs because itās the planetās last chance for survival.
But the last remnants of humanity, the survivors of the End, are not all content with their current situation. Headed by Preacher Man, they want to be in charge of their own destiny without any outside interference from an alien species. Below the surface, tensions are flaring and thereās only one person who can make a difference.
Heās the Man from Rock Bottom, the lowest level of the city. No one really knows his name. Some call him Human Joe, or Biff, while others call him A1, but he doesnāt mind. By working with Scintillant Camor, they bring back several species of animals and plants from extinction and he takes care of the animals in the Sanctuary. If an animal happens to wander into the city, he gets called in to retrieve it. Fighting underground monsters and saving animals is what he does. Until he is unexpectedly caught up in a brewing revolution.
Despite their flaws, humans tend to be proud and self-reliant. Due to their destructive tendencies, they have decimated the planet, and their only hope comes from an alien society. This is the post-apocalyptic world that Stephen Eric Johnson has created in his novel āThe Man from Rock Bottom.ā For once they are not the heroes and they are still around only because a lone creature stepped in and decided to give them a second chance. The Man is an empath and his abilities include telepathy, precognition, and a fast-healing metabolism. He works together with Susan and Trinidad from the Pan-Galactic Empire to help Scintillant Camor when he is taken captive.
I was drawn to this novel because of the concept of different alien races and creatures living and working together in a futuristic society. This novel has so many of them, including dragons, super-rats, foxes, and birds. Some of them are empaths who have the ability to share the feelings and pain of others. When the story begins, a ship from the Pan-Galactic Republic arrives on Earth carrying various human survivors of the End. They are met by Republic soldiers who are aliens.
Providing book by book publicity for Indie Authors since 2005.I was hooked on the second chapter when Scintillant Camor made his first appearance. He is a fox with purple fur and violet eyes, and he is an empath. While interviewing a woman to find out where best to place her, his opinion of her is so poignant: Sheād be more attractive if she wasnāt hiding so much hurt inside, the same way sheās hiding the bruises of recent violence under her neat clothes and slightly too-heavy makeup.
By having a multiple point of view narrative, readers get to experience a unique world through various perspectives. This futuristic action adventure, blended with fantasy and science fiction, follows The Manās gripping journey from obscure gene pirate to would-be hero. It is well-paced and the writing draws readers into the emotional turmoil and complex layers of the different characters. The authorās character descriptions make them come to life: From one side of the man came a vast shape, broad wings outstretched like thunderheads, a sharp, wicked hiss of fury filling the night.
Overall, āThe Man from Rock Bottomā is an entertaining and thought provoking read that highlights human resilience and the power of second chances while exploring the ultimate desire for a better life, themes of good vs evil, redemption, bravery, and free will. At its center lie empathy and compassion. It is recommended for fans of post-apocalyptic science fiction and speculative fiction who enjoy stories of humans interacting with various species of aliens.
Thereās a flash of ghost-pale bodies and wide, horrible eyes, but they vanish as I swing my sticky, and I can feel the crunch of bone once, twice, and then Iām through, shouldering my way past the little gang without looking back.
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How long have you been dreaming of seeing your book on shelves? For months? Years? Maybe even decades? If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to finally finish your book and share your story with the world, 2025 is your year!
At Richter Publishing, we specialize in helping aspiring authors, book lovers, and writers like you turn ideas into published works. Our team has the tools and structure you need to make your dream of becoming a published author a realityāand not just someday, but this year!
Why Make 2025 Your Year?
Your Story MattersĀ ā You have a unique perspective, and thereās an audience waiting to hear it.Ā
Opportunities Are EndlessĀ ā With the availability of one-on-one coaching, and online tools, publishing has never been more accessible. We have helped hundreds of authors from all over the globe get their works published.Ā
No More WaitingĀ ā If youāve been procrastinating, we are here to guide you step by step. Our experienced staff holds your hand through every step of the writing, editing and publishing process to take the guess work out of it.Ā
Tools and Tips for Success
Set Realistic Goals: Break down tasks into daily or weekly writing targets to stay consistent.
Track Your Progress: Use planners to note milestones, brainstorm ideas, or scribble inspirational quotes.
Get Support: Partner with our professional editors, designers, and marketing expertsāRichter Publishing can guide you every step of the way!
Become a Published Author with Richter Publishing
At Richter Publishing, we take the mystery out of book publishing. From turning your notes into a polished draft to preparing for launch day, our team is here to help you achieve your goal of holding your published book in your hands.
Want to make 2025 the year your story is finally told? Get in touch with us today, and let’s make it happen! Just go here and fill out our form so we can get to know more you and your book: www.contact us.
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Still searching for the perfect gift? Thereās still time to grab your favorite books and get them in time for the holidays! š
Shopping for books isnāt just about finding a great readāitās about supporting indie authors and their families. Every purchase from an independent author helps bring more stories into the world.
āØ Spread holiday cheer and make a difference with your gift this year. āØ
š¦ Order today and make it a book-filled Christmas! š
It’s not just about supporting indie authors, but also discovering new and unique stories that may not be found in mainstream stores. By gifting a book from an independent author, you’re not only giving a thoughtful present but also introducing your loved ones to new voices and perspectives.
In addition to books being the perfect gift for any occasion, they also provide endless entertainment and knowledge. Whether it’s a gripping thriller or a heartwarming romance, books have the power to transport us to different worlds and teach us valuable lessons. Give the gift of imagination this holiday season with a book. Click on the image to see all of our titles from our authors.Ā
Don’t forget that books are versatile gifts as well. They come in various formats such as physical copies, e-books, and audiobooks, making them suitable for all kinds of readers. Plus, they are easy to wrap and ship!
And let’s not forget the joy of receiving a book as a gift. It shows that the giver put thought and care into choosing something special for you. The personal touch of selecting a book that aligns with someone’s interests or values speaks volumes about the depth of your relationship.
So why wait? With just one week left until Christmas, start browsing through our website today and find the perfect book for everyone on your list. Spread love, support creativity, and share the magic of reading this holiday season! š š¼ Happy Holidays from Richter Publishing.
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Attention book lovers! Our Cyber Monday Sale is here, and you donāt want to miss it.
š„ Whatās on Sale:
Discounted books from your favorite authors. See below the hardback books on sale.
BONUS: Get our 2024 catalog for FREE! Kindle version only.
ā³ Sale Duration: Available for 5 days only! Donāt waitāthese deals will disappear faster than your favorite page-turner. Ends Friday, December 6, 2024, 11:59 PM PST.
š Stock up on great reads and grab your free catalog while supplies last! Just click on the images below.
Authors books on Sale for a Limited Time!
Looking for some new books to add to your collection? Look no further than our incredible lineup of talented authors. From bestselling favorites to debut writers, we have something for every reader. Our diverse group of authors come from all walks of life and backgrounds, bringing unique perspectives and stories that will captivate you. Through their words, you’ll travel to different worlds, experience a range of emotions, and gain new insights. Not sure where to start? Check out our staff picks and recommendations for some inspiration. We also offer book clubs and discussion guides for selected titles, perfect for starting conversations with friends or joining an online community of readers.
Don’t forget to follow us on social media for exclusive sneak peeks, author interviews, and more exciting updates! And don’t hesitate to reach out to us with your thoughts and feedback – we love hearing from our readers.
Thank you for supporting our authors and independent bookstore. Happy shopping! šļøšā¤ļø #CyberMondayDeals #SupportIndieBookstores #HappyReading ššāØ
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Richter Publishing! š¦š
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what we’re grateful for and to celebrate the joys of community, family, and giving. We’re incredibly thankful for YOUāour amazing customers who continue to support and inspire us every day.
As you enjoy the holiday season, remember that after Thanksgiving comes Black Fridayāa great opportunity to support small businesses and local authors. Your purchases make a meaningful difference in our communities!
Wishing you a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving filled with love, gratitude, and delicious pie! š„§š
Thank you for being part of our story.
Speaking of Black Friday, weāre excited to offer some exclusive deals that you wonāt want to miss! Whether youāre shopping for gifts for loved ones or treating yourself, we have something special just for you.
These books are on special holiday discounts! The hardback versions. Click to buy on Amazon now.
Your support means everything to us, and weāre committed to bringing you high-quality products and services this holiday season and beyond. Hereās to a season filled with joy, connection, and lots of holiday cheer! šāØ
On November 11, 1918, WWI ended. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it as a day to remember those who served in the war: Armistice Day. Many lives were lost, as much as changed, in the First World War. It wasnāt until after WWII that there was a push to celebrate all veterans, not just the ones who served during WWI. Today, November 11 is observed as Veterans Day; a day made to honor all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and recognize the sacrifices they have made for the country they live in.
There are plenty of those who served and have their own stories to tell. In honor of these veterans, their voices were put on paper and the true scars and experiences of the aftermath of war are now published for the world to understand what it takes to be a veteran.
VETERANS
Jarron Webster, George Trowbridge, Tonja Anderson-Dell, and Jonathan Bonnet.
These are the names of four veteransāor family members of veteransāand authors who were brave enough to share their stories with the world, and as a day to celebrate their service approaches, we will take a look at the importance of what their stories hold.
In Jarron Websterās Millennial Marriages: A Military Relationship, he explores the unique challenges and dynamics of marriages among millennials in the military, specifically through the journey of Mark and Wendy. There is a distinctive resilience that this couple must have in order to face multiple issues that come barrelling their wayāfrequent relocations, financial pressures, family planning, and the difficulty of maintaining trust amid long periods of separation. Through this story, readers get to truly understand the ins and outs of navigating a military marriage as a millennial pairing.
There is more than one story Jarron Webster has told, as the Air Force veteran now finds himself as an inspirational speaker and realtor, who attempts to encourage people around the nation and takes pride in helping find their homes which he once fought to protect.
George Trowbridgeās Striking Eight Bells: A Vietnam Memoirtakes a more personal and introspective tone, sharing an account of his service in the U.S. Navy during the latter part of the Vietnam War. This memoir captures Trowbridgeās journey through training and active duty, sharing accounts of missions in which he faced enemy fire and the emotional and physical toll it would take on him and his comrades. This firsthand perspective is informative of history and life in the military, while also exploring the emotional turmoil of what it means to be a veteran of the Vietnam War.
After twenty years in the U.S. Navy, Georgeās story has been ready to be seen by the world. He continues to serve his country through occasional marine technologies and advanced ship navigation training courses, and we want to continue to celebrate his work in serving and protectingāeven in retirement.
Tonja Anderson-Dellās Gifts From a Glacier: The Quest for an American Flag and 52 Souls is a poignant memoir that uncovers the story of a tragic plane crash from 1952. As the granddaughter of one of the fallen soldiers from the crash of a U.S. Air Force C-124 Globemaster, Anderson-Dell embarks on a quest for closure, aiming to recover an American flag that symbolizes their sacrifice. Her memoir offers a deep exploration of loss, legacy, and persistence, as she seeks to honor her grandfather and bring closure to the families of the other servicemen who perished.
This memoir and Tonja Anderson-Dellās journey to bringing the lost military home prove to do exactly what Veterans Day is all about: honoring those who have served our country and making sure their voices and stories are heard.
Scars of a Soldier by Jonathan Bonnet is a memoir that narrates Bonnetās journey from his troubled adolescence to his service as a soldier in Afghanistan. Bonnet reflects on the emotional and psychological scars left by both his past struggles and his experiences in combat. His deeply personal account offers unique insight into the challenges of transitioning from a life of instability to the military, shedding light on resilience and the pursuit of healing and normalcy after traumatizing experiences.
Jonathan Bonnet explores the psychological and emotional scars he was ridden with throughout his life and opens himself up in an effort to narrate exactly what it means to be a veteranāand how to live as a veteran outside of the battlefield.
These four authors are only a few of many, but they have shared their words with the world in hopes of shedding light on the experiences of military marriages, bloody battlefields, recovering lost artifacts, and all that comes after.
CELEBRATE
There are plenty of ways to celebrate the valiant service of members of our military. Even beyond Veterans Day, it is important to express thanks year-round to any veterans you might run into. There are a few other ways to celebrate our veterans including:
Visiting a Veterans Hospital
Taking time to visit Veterans Hospitals and simply chatting with elderly or injured veterans is a great way to brighten their day and remind them of the world they fought for. You might want to sit and listen to fascinating stories of their service or bring an activity to do with them, either way, it is a lovely way to spend time withāand supportāour veterans.
Attend Local Veterans Parade
Plenty of cities hold a Veterans parade in honor of those in service. Parades are a common and very expressive way of showing support for something. Finding out when and where your cityās Veterans Parade is being held is a great way to enthusiastically show your support for local veterans.
Wear a Red Poppy
During the First World War, millions of soldiers witnessed fields of red poppies on the Western Front, and they would sometimes send pressed poppies home with their letters. Since then, red poppies have been internationally recognized as a symbol of remembrance for WWI. Wearing a red poppy would be a simple, yet kind, way to show support for our veterans.
Send a Card/Care Package
There are multiple organizations who dedicate themselves to creating and sending care packages and letters expressing gratitude. Reach out to an organization closest to you, and see how you can help. If you have the ability to donate food and other goods for the care packages that get sent to soldiers, it would be a gesture that would show support and also aid those in service who are in need.
These are only some of the ways we can show support to our veterans. History is told through stories, and those who have fought to be part of history and even aided in changing it are the stories that demand to be heard. In honor of the veterans with a story to tell, we can offer to listen. Whether that be through purchasing a book, wearing a flower, or listening to the stories of veterans around you, there is always a way to show support for those who fight for us.
Blog written by Lux Figueroa
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October began harshly this year, with a Hurricane Sandwich wreaking havoc across Tampa Bay and leaving many people uncertain of what came next. We found ourselves searching for ways to cope with the emotional storm left behind by the physical ones. The uncertainty of how much was lost and what we might never recover flooded our minds and begged to be let out. We struggle to understand why we are left behind when everything we own and cherish has disappeared. There is no rhyme or rhythm to grappling with this loss, there is only what we think and how we feel. Despite the difficulty we face during this time, it is easy to forget that in the aftermath of the devastation left behind by these unprecedented natural disasters, we find ourselves in a unique position to create.
The names āHeleneā and āMiltonā have begun to haunt the narrative of our lives. It is almost fitting, with the Halloween season coming up, that we would be forced to remember the horrific sounds of rushing winds blowing out screen panels and knocking trees down over cars and houses alike. There is a certain realness to the Spooky Season this year as leftover fear continues to permeate the air in recovering cities. No haunted house is more terrifying than sitting inside your own home and watching flood waters pour in with the inability to do anything about it. To witness the horrors, once limited to TV screens, occur in our own homesāto lose the ability to truly see at all, with only dimly lit candles to guide us until theyāre put out by wind or water is a life-changing experience. A traumatic one. The gushing echo of water filled our ears with such force it ricocheted through the entire building, shaking the foundation of a three-story townhome. There was no way outāthe streets were even worse for wear than the home, and all we could do was sit back and watch in terror as our lives were washed away by the violent, displaced currents. In the end, the ghost of soaked scraps lingers amidst the wreckage of what was once a home.
Even now, weeks after disaster struck, our heartbeats pick up with high-speed winds and daunting weather forecasts. We go back to work or school and hear the loss of mementos in the pouring coffee that sounds too much like rushing water, and the blasting air conditioning that reminds us just how dangerous winds can be. The horror finds its place back on TV screens, in movies we cannot watch because there is no power to run them. Either way, it does not matter. There is no horror movie as frightening as the ones that are realāthe ones we experience.
Then, there is After. After the ocean leaves our homes, and with it flows our life-turned-debris, what are we left with? The rubble of neighborsā houses litters the street and no one knows where to start. Eventually, there are things that need to get done. Clean up, assess, process. We can throw ourselves into labor instead of despair. But there is always After. Untold stories linger on the tips of our tongues and the pads of our fingers. They do not have to remain untold. There is something healing in putting pen-to-paper or hand-to-keyboard and just letting all the fear trickle out onto the pageāor screen. During times when tensions are high and devastation is vast, there is an opportunity to release leftover emotions by writing them down.
It is no secret amongst psychologists that writing is a good method to process your thoughts and emotions during distressing times. It is evident, through the encouragement of journaling, that writing has always been a way of putting thought to paper. But writing is more than a simple recollection or accumulation of thoughts. Writing is a way to create something newāa way to tell a story when there is nothing else to say or it becomes too hard to speak. It has proven to be extremely therapeutic to simply note things down when one starts to feel overwhelmed. Whether that be through poetry, letters, fiction, or any other form of storytelling, there always exists a place in which we might feel safe to be afraid or devastated. Sometimes, the best way to face the storm of our lives is to write it downāto create something amidst all the chaos.
There is also something to be said about making the most of what life has given you. Lemons to lemonade. Of course, the lemons in this equation are natural disasters, but the concept still remains. There is an adjustment period we are now forced to go through in which we begin to realize all the things we cannot control. In the midst of this, writing would be a very helpful tool for those who seek to have some form of controllable outlet for their thoughts and emotions. There is already enough grief lingering around the city, and it needs somewhere to go. What better place to put it than in words? Here, stories live on and emotions are remembered in ways that no longer have to hurt. Here, natural disasters cannot take more than what they already have. Here, we move on.
Now, we are in recovery and healing. The daunting sense of disconnect wears off and we must attend to rebuilding our homes. Some people volunteer to clear the streets, others help those stuck in shelters. It is not only our homes that need rebuilding, though. It is our minds and hearts. For this, some people paint, while others scream. Some people are still searching for answers wherever they can find them. And some people write. As nature mends itself from natural disasters, we must also learn to heal and grow from these experiences. Nature reels in her waves as we pour out our words. It is another transaction, but this time it does not have to hurt or leave us with nothing. This time, we are making something that cannot be taken.
Richter Publishing 