A vision for hope for the United States
OPINION — Two hundred fifty years ago, the Continental Congress declared May 17, 1776, a day of prayer and hope for the new, emerging, independent nation’s future. Two hundred fifty years later, President Trump announced that Sunday, May 17, 2026, would be a day for the nation to unite and “Rededicate 250” as a day of jubilee and prayer.
Following President Trump’s announcement, a Fountain Hills volunteer committee, including myself, was organized to make it happen. During one of our meetings, I suggested everyone attending be offered a small American flag. On that day, nearly 200 united to memorialize this occasion, all waving American flags.
After the program commenced, I was seated, alone, back from the last row. Here, without interrupting the observance, I still could offer late arrivals their flag.
Soon after the start of the program two young children, neatly attired, apparently sister and brother holding hands, slowly approached me.
“Would you like an American flag,” I asked softly. Their young eyes widened. They’d silently answered my question.
Sadly, those nearly 200 devoted were facing the speaker’s platform, and failed to see a brief, yet significant moment.
“Yes,” the girl softly answered. I handed them their flags.
"Thank you,” the girl said. In the expressions radiating from their young, bright, glowing faces I quickly observed a true, youthful sincerity in those words, “Thank you.”
With sparkling eyes, they were joyfully waving their flags as they returned to their seats, still holding hands.
My viewing of that touching scene ignited in me a rapidly blooming euphoric gift of a realistic vision for the United States of America for another 250 years. Let them have all the American flags they need. Those two young children and others like them, represent our nation’s futuristic vision for hope.
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