By: Deb Kitchenmaster
The American citizen, the American flag, and the American horse bring light into a nation. Arise and shine for the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
The United States is a country of 50 states, covering a vast territory of North America, with Alaska in the northwest and Hawaii extending the nation’s presence into the Pacific Ocean. Americans are the citizens and nationals of the United States of America. U.S. federal LAW does not equate nationality with race or ethnicity but rather with CITIZENSHIP.
“American” generally means a resident or a citizen of the United States; but is also used for someone whose ethnic identity is simply “American.” An American achieves citizenship through birth (birthright citizenship) or naturalization, a LEGAL process for non-citizens to become citizens.
The 14th Amendment states: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States, and of the state wherein they reside.” American identity refers to the complex and evolving sense of self that encompasses the shared values, beliefs, and cultural practices of people living in the United States. This identity is shaped by historical events, cultural influences, and social dynamics, reflecting both UNITY and DIVERSITY “within” the nation.
The American flag with its 13 stars and 13 stripes was officially adopted by the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. This would be the first of three major flag acts passed by Congress. A national flag is a powerful symbol that represents a nation’s identity, unity, and standards. The American flag acts as a visual representative of the country — its people and its government.
The colors of the flag are meaningful. Red means valor and bravery. White means purity and innocence. The blue color on the American flag represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice. Each time a state was added to the union, a star was added. It was last modified on July 4, 1960. Our current American flag displays 50 stars and 13 stripes.
As the lyrics of “Stars and Stripes Forever state: “The red, white, and starry blue is freedom’s shield and hope.” Our flag is more than just cloth and ink, it’s about liberty, justice, freedom, love of country and national purpose. The flag of the United States is a symbol of freedom. Americans face the flag, place their hand over their hearts, and recite the Pledge of Allegiance in honor and respect to those who have given their very lives on battlefields fighting for our freedoms here in the United States of America.
The first American horse breed is the Morgan horse. In an attempt to pay back a loan, this little bay colt was given to a singing schoolmaster, Justin Morgan. Prior to taking a teaching job up north in Randolph, Vermont, Justin lived in Springfield, Massachusetts. His neighbor was struggling; out of the kindness of his heart, Justin loaned him some money. As time passed, Justin needed some medical attention, plus he wanted to add a pitch pipe to his music class. Justin boarded at the home of one of his students, Joel Goss.
During summer break, Justin decided to walk the 100 miles south, from Vermont to Massachusetts, accompanied by Joel, with the intention to collect the loan from his old neighbor, farmer Abner Beane. Abner wasn’t able to give cash but he offered Justin his two colts, Ebenezer and little Bub. It was the WILLINGNESS of this little horse that became an American legend. Little Bub’s name was changed to
Figure and referred to as Morgan’s horse. Figure labored all day; for fun in the evenings, the guys would race him against other horses. There was not a horse in Vermont that could out walk, out trot, out run, or out pull him. New Yorkers heard about this little horse and brought two thoroughbreds down to race. Figure won both races! This little horse brought a bloodline into America where generals relied on their Morgan mount in times of war. Morgan horses are known for their superb temperament, athletic ability, and versatility.
“Freedom lies in being bold.” Robert Frost
The righteous are as bold as a lion.
Your NEIGHbor – Deb Kitchenmaster
June 20, 2025
