Americanism: Come Together to Keep the American Spirit Alive

Come Together to Keep the American Spirit Alive

Let us come together, even though we are apart, to keep the American spirit alive. Some of you may be sheltering at home, some may have lost a job and some may still be working. Always remember you are not alone. My thoughts are with you all — and for America — and for those in other countries around the world who are suffering.

Even though it can be challenging to meet and handle business, try hosting a meeting via teleconference or videoconference to have group discussions. It is still necessary to continue the great work we do for our veterans and our communities. There are many ways to make this pandemic easier on everyone, and cover several of our Programs in the process.

• Display your American Flag at home and place small American Flags throughout your neighborhood to boost morale.
• Phone a friend. So many of us rely on texting to communicate and while it’s a great way to check in, the sound of another’s voice can bring comfort to another person that a text can’t. For those who are alone and sheltering at home, a phone call may be the only contact they have with the outside world. Spare a few minutes, pick up the phone and make someone’s day!
• Sew facemasks for those in need. If you don’t sew, you may have some fabric or elastic hair bands you could donate to those who are making them.
• Donate extra craft supplies to senior homes, group homes for those with disabilities who don’t get out to their day programs, or to families who have children who need to be entertained.
• Donate food or money to a food pantry, or take a meal to a shut-in or person in need.
• Put up signs on lawns, windows or doors to say “Thank You” to our first responders.
• Make cards to send to fire and police stations, nursing and Veteran homes, and fellow members. A homemade or store-bought card is sure to brighten their day.
• Thank farmers, truckers and food processing plant workers who are working to make sure we have the food and supplies we need.
• Sing in quarantine. Entertain others with the online Quarantine Karaoke. It is so FUN! I know several friends who are doing this and it really breaks up the monotony of television re-runs, and brings so much joy to the lives of others.
• Play games online. There are games you can make up and challenge each other with, such as “I Spy,” posting pet, significant other or other photos on Facebook, or you can interact with the many games available to download.

We can’t gather in large groups, but that doesn’t mean we can’t show our AMERICAN SPIRIT. We are proud Americans and we are SURVIVORS! No matter how insignificant an act of kindness may seem to you, it matters to someone and it keeps VFW Auxiliary members active in these trying times.

Thank you all for working so vigilantly in your local schools and communities teaching the values and traditions of America. In addition, thank you all so much for everything you have done for our Veterans and the Organization this year.

Mahalo!