Courtesy Jason Robison

“Think, believe, dream and dare.”

These words were written by a family member of mine as part of a social media post recently. He is not the first one to write or say this, but his life experiences makes this phrase particularly meaningful. He happens to be a newcomer to the United States, moving here a just a few months ago from Venezuela, a home that has become too dangerous, too unstable.

The words he wrote refer to the dream of coming to the United States, realizing safety, security, hope and dreams coming true. What a perfect time for a post like this, as we were recently celebrating Independence Day.

I have felt lucky during the past several days to be able to look out of my window and see Lady Liberty, the giant flag hanging majestically above Grove Creek Canyon in Pleasant Grove. The flag will be there through July 10.

As I spent time on the Murdock Canal Trail during the past couple of days, with the giant flag billowing in the breeze nearby, I have seen many people taking a pause from their walking, jogging and cycling to watch the flag, take photos and just enjoy. Yes, the flag holds special meaning to so many.

Courtesy Jason Robison

Hundreds of people – not just locals – make the trek up to see the flag flying majestically above the Grove Creek trailhead every year. Some sit and stay awhile or hike below it. Others go up every night it is there. Some camp nearby in order to see it first thing in the morning. Photographers take photos. Many take selfies with the flag in the background and we see them all over social media.

Some comments recently made on social media about the giant flag include, “I remember the first year I moved back here, we drove up to watch the flag being put up the canyon. It brought tears to my eyes,” and “It was absolutely breathtaking,” and “I love to see Old Glory wave.”

To many of us, the flag symbolizes freedom, history and hope. To others, it may symbolize the opportunity to make changes and to better ourselves and our country. To my grandfather, a veteran of World War II, it was a symbol of sacrifice, pride and love. Newcomers to the United States, such as my family member, may see it as a symbol of a new life, newfound possibilities and a realization of a lifelong dream – a symbol of thinking, believing, dreaming and daring.

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