In Memory

We traveled to Arkansas Thursday night to be with Nick's family.  His grandpa passed away Thursday morning.  The service was very nice, I had never been to a military burial, and it was very moving...I loved watching the American flag be folded. Here is a little info I found on the meanings behind the folds of the flag (there is speculation whether these meanings are endorsed by the U.S. Military, but would like to think they are.)

*The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. 

*The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. 

*The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world. 

*The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance. 

*The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong." 

*The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States Of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all. 

*The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic. 

*The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day. 

*The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded. 

*The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born. 

*The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 

*The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit. 

When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our nation's motto, "In God We Trust". 

The bugle was played giving the time a beautiful meaning that words could not give.

I am so proud to be a part of the Barker family.  It is filled with women that love the Lord and their families.  Women that know when to speak up for what they believe in and also know when to keep things in their hearts.  I am so thankful for Chris, Gay, Debbie, Rennie, and of course MaMaw.  

You can go to Rennie's blog (www.ree-view.blogspot.com) to see pictures of PaPaw.