I’d like to share a personal family story since it’s almost Independence Day here in the states. The reason for this story is two-fold; first, it’s a story about an American flag and second, because it’s a great example of how the power of choice and determination can change your life.
My grandmother Zabel, and her mother Varter were both 100% Armenian on my father’s side of the family. Born in the United States, my Grandmother traveled back to Armenia with Varter to visit family twice when she was a child. My Grandmother was only 10 years old when they went back for a second visit in 1914. This was during the time of the Armenian massacres and though they were American citizens, they were still Armenian. Trying to flee the massacres, they were traveling through the desert from Harpoot to Constantinople where her Uncle, an Archbishop resided. With them were 7 others, including nieces and nephews on her father’s side, and a couple of family friends. On their way, a band of Turkish soldiers stopped them and threatened to kill them. But sewn to their covered wagon was a small American flag. In that instant, Varter showed them the flag and yelled out, “You see that flag! If I don’t go back the American’s are gonna come and get you, they’re gonna retaliate!” She fought and argued with them, she stood her ground, she didn’t stop and it worked. They were released and made their way to Constantinople to safety. Eventually, they made it back to the States and never returned again to Armenia, while others were never heard from again. Throughout her life, my grandmother repeatedly said that it was an absolute miracle that the Turks ever let them go, a miracle from God.
Two months ago, my father gave me the actual flag that was sewn to that covered wagon, and the photograph of that flag is shown here for this article. When I held it, the first thought that came to my mind was, “My goodness, without this little flag, I wouldn’t be here today.” And it inspired me to share the story. Through my great-Grandmothers determination and wisdom to have even carried the flag with her to Armenia, she changed the lives of everyone on that wagon, and therefore, the lives of generations to come.
We have no idea the reaching affects of our decisions, or the affects of how one determined action can change an entire outcome. Therefore, we must choose wisely, because what we choose determines our fate. What chooses us, determines our destiny.
Hi Bambi,
How dear your article is. I’m so glad that your grandmother had such determintation. Having you here to share your passion, gifts and love
means so much to me and everyone you touch.
I haven’t been online in awhile and so have missed out on many of your former newsletters. I just happened to be thinking about you this morning as I awakened for the day. Thinking about just this: Looking forward to receiving your newsletter this month to connect with you. They are such an inspiration to me. You have a blessed Independence weekend and always. Sending loving thoughts. Belinda
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Opening your news letter this morning touched me deeply. Seeing my Mothers flag immediatly choked me up and as I read this story, that I know so well, I felt a tear roll down my cheek. I had not myself thought of it in that way and what ramifications came from my grandmothers decision to carry with her the American flag. Your great-grandparents, on
both sides, were very proud to be Americans and clearly understood the blessings that this country and it’s founders gave to them. Thank you dear heart for sharing this, it was a wonderful example of the importance of our
choices. Your grandparents would be extreamly pleased. Happy 4th and
God Bless America. Love, Dad
Thanks Miss Bambi, for your attentions. I think, what different, Law of Attraction, with, “The Secret”. I always see film “The Secret” and read this book. So, I have one piece the book. Three month, I see Oprah, resensi n dialog with their writers’s Secret, on my national television “Metro TV”.
BTW, I like you, and your programs can help many people in the world. I hope God bless you…! Ever onward, never retreat!
How Determination Can Change Your Life…
I found your entry interesting do I’ve added a Trackback to it on my weblog :)…