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Jul-10-2012 21:13printcomments

Ray 'Bubba' Sorenson & 'The Freedom Rock'

Veterans and their families have a friend in Iowa.

'The Freedom Rock'
You can help, start by visiting his Website: thefreedomrock.com

(CINCINNATI) - Desecration of the American flag is always a 'hot' news story, particularly when flames are used to ignite a symbol of national pride... for which so many have died. But what happens when the exact opposite takes place? Without question, media attention is scarce.

Ray 'Bubba' Sorenson began his project, the 'The Freedom Rock', back in 1999, before the U.S. was launched into its current set of wars in the Middle east.

It was a time when American political leaders were busy bickering instead of watching out for the best interests of the Americans people.

It is a large rock in the Midwest state of Iowa, once covered with graffiti as so many are; however it changed into something that builds pride and reminds Americans of the sacrifices of their Veterans.

"Freedom Rock Mural Tour"

NOTE: The Freedom Rock is paid for by Bubba with the generous help of donations and will remain that way.

There is a scheduled tour, and Bubba needs sponsors to provide: Vehicle, Paint/Supplies, etc. for mural painting tour around our nation.

You can help, start by visiting Bubba's Website and while you are there, take a look at the incredible images of The Freedom Rock and also check out the videos, most importantly, drop a small donation his way to ensure that this important project continues: http://www.thefreedomrock.com/index2.php#/home/

Ray 'Bubba' Sorenson & 'The Freedom Rock'

For the likes of, “Quadriga Art” scams there is usually one,
Who are proud of & appreciate the job Veterans have done,
Bubba Sorenson is truly ready, willing and incredibly able,
Ray has commanded Jeremiah 51:27, on his drawing table.

On Highway 25 in rural Iowa there sits, “The Freedom Rock,”
And from a distance an American Flag is draped across the top,
We know looks are deceiving it is actually expertly painted on,
But, either way, the message relayed is proud, bold and strong.

“A picture is worth a thousand words” however, not in this case,
Because, not even a million words could ever begin to replace,
The feeling of pure patriotism that overwhelms when you stand,
Yet even more so as you excitedly reach out and touch by hand.

Ray began painting upon the rock filled with youthful graffiti,
It was 1999 (pre 9/11) feeling patriotism was low, yes indeedy,
He began his labor sharing Memorial Day with a sense of pride,
While the U.S. Government from their responsibility run & hide?

He continues to paint expressing freedom is by no means free,
Believing in love, tributes to Veterans, God and this country,
There is still very little is know of this master painter’s story,
Instead giving press to those who choose to burn, “Old Glory.”

Desecration of the Stars & Stripes will make headline news,
As those dissatisfied with this country are giving interviews,
First Amendment, Freedom of Speech, they yell and scream,
Only by the blood & guts of soldiers who died for the dream.

Protesters who push forward when police tell them to get back,
But no trouble running away should America come under attack,
Has the government honored Ray with a visit to the White House?
And not to drink beer between Black & White playing cat & mouse.

Suffice to say, not every one residing in this country has lost sight,
For the American standard, the difference between wrong & right,
Amidst the controversy Veterans continue to give it all they’ve got,
“Cornerstone” in the bible, a solid foundation is built upon a, “Rock.”

By Luke Easter.

_____________________________________________

Luke Easter is a poet who writes about things that are very close to the heart of Salem-News.com. Another former U.S. Marine, Luke heals the world with an approach that reaches people on a different level, one known for centuries, yet too often forgotten in the one we live in.

We live in a world of social & economic injustice. The main reason for founding America in the first place was to relieve the oppression of the King of England. Patrick Henry said it best, “give me liberty or give me death.” And yet, all too often death seems to be the only way out. Why is there such a high suicide rate especially among teens, in the land of the free & the home of the brave? What makes headlines? Good news? Ha! More depressing stories than anything else. I feel poetry takes an edge off the hurt of bad news while still delivering it but in a, “glitzy” sort of way. Giving a different perspective. Kind of like slap in the face as opposed to a knife in the back. At least with the slap you’ll live to see another day and you will know whom it’s from. I wasn’t here for the beginning of the world but at 59, I just might be here for the end.

Even though it’s still a knife, rhyme poetry helps to dull the blade. And that’s my job. You can write to Luke Easter at: lyricsfromlucas@aol.com


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Zane July 11, 2012 12:31 pm (Pacific time)

I love the story. The poem was great too. It is so refreshing to read about something positive for once, on any news medium!

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