#7... The Olde Patriot ~

The old photograph was discovered many years ago tucked inside a weathered wooden trunk, carefully wrapped in yellowed cloth beside a folded American flag and a handful of brittle letters.

No one in the family knew the patriot's name anymore, only that he had once passed through Colorado Springs carrying stories of sacrifice, hardship, and love of country.

Each Fourth of July, the family proudly displays the portrait inside the mercantile, where the people of Colorado Springs gather for the town's celebration. Surrounded by flags, bunting, and treasured keepsakes from years gone by, the old patriot watches quietly over the festivities.

Brian has always loved the Fourth of July and is usually the first one through the mercantile door that morning.

While the others rush toward the candy jars and decorations, Brian always pauses for a moment beneath the old photograph, strangely drawn to the patriot's tired eyes - as though somewhere deep inside, he understands the sacrifice.

A Sue Corlett Original Print
Painted Wood Frane
Distressed Patriotic Scarf
12 x 14 1/2