The Essence of Time

Time is a word that we use to describe the minutes, hours, days, months, years and centuries that are contained within.  Throughout this framework of time, there is movement of life experiences and discoveries that create memories and the sum total of living both individually and collectively.  Without getting complicated, time allows the unfolding of human behavior, for good or for bad, and advancement in civilization itself.  Our technology steadily makes amazing increase yet human condition across the globe has not kept up the pace.  Peace and good will among humanity gets lost in the pockets of extremism, greed and power. Encased in the ions of time, history sorely repeats itself in horrific illustrations of what mankind can do to mankind.... all in the name of what!  The cause or ideology becomes smeared with blood, ashes and pain of violence in corrupted belief, leaving an abhorrence in the pages of time.  

There is a rather sobering thought in Genesis 4, which contains the narrative of Cain and Abel, describing the first blood spilled on the land as a result of one brother killing the other.   Scripture states that this very blood cried out to the Lord from the land.  This issue of life in the form of blood now fell into a soiled death.  Since that time and throughout the centuries, our earth must make a formidable cry unto the Universe.  How ironic that in the beginning of creation, God took this same dust of the earth and fashioned man calling him Adam.

A paradox exists in noble accounts showing the best of humanity deemed worthy to write about as a tribute to the betterment of mankind.  Those who have lived their lives quietly and those who are renowned define the transitions throughout time to constitute God's intention in the respect and honor of all of His creations.  They brought honor in their time and taken risks to bring change to improve a broken world.   As time marches on from the past to the present and into the future,  the 'hallelujah' cry resonates for the awakening of the secret chord in the search for harmony and peace among nations. 

I conclude this post with a reminder that within the context of time, a familiar scripture that is potent in its simplicity states...."Be still and know that I am God"  from Psalm 46:10.   Time can be transcended into the Eternal where no time exists.

Until we meet again on Monday, December 7th,  have a blessed Thanksgiving  and let us not take for granted the privileges in freedom that we enjoy in these United States of America.  God protect her, guide her and guard her, so that Lady Liberty continue to be the beacon of light to the world.

Check this link for the Hallelujah song by Leonard Cohen in reference to the secret chord.... a beautiful song with a reflective message....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccGz-li_rgM

The Marine Corps Birthday - 240 years old!

November 10 and 11 of this week recognizes two military events in celebration - the Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day.  I wrote a post on Veterans Day giving tribute to all American veterans and includes an article written by Father Denis Edward O'Brien, whose words say it all in the description of "What is a Vet".  This is the link to read in entirety:  http://www.turn-uppatch.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-veteran.htm

Today's post reflects on the Marine Corps Birthday, held on November 10th of each year.  This year celebrates the 240th birthday, from the founding of the Marine Corps in 1775.  The formal commemoration began in 1921 in birthday celebration.   There are some excellent websites to go to for more detailed facts regarding the formation, purpose and values that distinguishes this elite warrior known as a Marine.  One such link is listed at the bottom of this post for your information.

The following are symbols of the Marine Corps, which helps in part to explain their mission:

The Eagle, Globe and Anchor Emblem has been a part of the Marine Uniform since 1868 and became the official emblem of the Marine Corps in 1955.  The emblem symbolizes the following:
Eagle - represents the proud nation that the Marines defend.  It stands at the ready with coastlines in sight and the entire world within reach of its outstretched wings.
Globe - represents worldwide presence of the Marines
Anchor - points both to the Marine Corps' naval heritage and its ability to access any coastline in the world.
Together - the eagle, globe and anchor symbolize commitment to defend our nation - in the air, on land and at sea.

Semper Fidelis is latin for "Always Faithful".  You will find these words printed on the ribbon flowing from eagle's beak on the Marine Corps Flag that is scarlet and gold in color.  These are words commanding attention and characterizes the Marine Corps bond from any other.  Semper Fidelis became the motto in 1883.   It is inclusive as a brotherhood that can be counted on, guiding Marines to remain faithful to each other, to the Corps, to the mission at hand and to country.... no matter what.

The Marines' Hymn is the official hymn of the United States Marine Corps.  It is the oldest official song in the United States military and is typically sung at the position of attention as a gesture of respect.  The first part verse is as follows:

 From the Halls of Montezuma, to the shores of Tripoli;

We fight our countrie's battles; In the air, on land, and sea;

First to fight for right and freedom, And to keep our honor clean.

  We are proud to claim the title of United States Marine.

To hear all three verses of the Hymn, click on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5kCqvsO_7c
If you want to get your adrenaline going, watch this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbgB_fqavO0
 

The above photos were taken 'once upon a time' of my favorite Marine.  He traded in his helmet for a cowboy hat and remains honorable to the Corps to this day.  I have witnessed the bond that Semper Fidelis has with fellow Marines, whether currently active or discharged from service.  As the saying goes.... 'once a Marine, always a Marine'.  There is a camaraderie from one to another - strangers shake hands once identified as having Marine Corps history.

In closing, there is one tradition that I'd like to mention - the "Ooh-rah" - a motivational cry that signifies Marines are ready and eager to accomplish the mission before them.  I've watched Jim ooh-rah in his life not only in the military but with his job, his ranch and his family.  So, I say thank you for your service in all that you have done throughout the years.... from your favorite camp-follower!

Marine Corps Information Link: 
http://www.marines.com/history-heritage/timeline 

See you next time at The Turn-Up Patch on Monday, November 23....  Uphold our military in prayer as we remember the Marines and all branches of the armed forces in recognition of our Veterans this week.