Amazing Grace

It's almost that time again... Memorial Day. You know the official start to summer. Parties, parades, BBQ's, get together's with family, friends and lets not forget the best part, the sales everywhere. 

It's possible if you're a millennial or a person who lives in a safe space you might think that is actually what the holiday is all about. However, I'm guessing if you read this blog you know better. ;o) It is unfortunate that the real meaning of the holiday is often the last thing on the minds of some people these days. Thankfully, there are people who not only remember, but who also choose to step out and give folks a big fat reminder. Enter, musician Dave Bray. 

Here's an excerpt from his bio, which is a perfect description of what he is doing to impact pop culture for the positive:

"Dave Bray is a dedicated husband, father, and musician. He grew up in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, where he currently lives with his wife and 2 boys.      

Dave proudly served in the U.S. Navy as an 8404 FMF Corpsman for the 2nd Battalion/2nd Marines, (STA PLT), stationed out of Camp Lejeune, NC.

Dave has entertained people all over the world and has dedicated his musical career to supporting U.S. Veterans, Active Duty Military and First Responders.

Dave looks at his music as a continuation of his service. His love of God and Country are evident in his original songs and patriotic renditions."

Anyone who has been following me for any amount of time by now knows my feelings about the upside down world we're living in today. How my goal as an artist is to offer an alternative to the gobbledygook of moral rot served up by many of those in entertainment infecting the noggins of people across the globe. So it's very refreshing for me to see that there are other's who share my passion to create art about what's really important and do it in such a beautiful and powerful way.

Check out his gorgeous rendition of Amazing Grace, so incredibly inspiring. Then share it with friends, family and especially those who serve and who have served. 

I love our service men and women not only because I'm married to an air Force Veteran and my mom works as an NSO for the Purple Heart, but because it is the right thing to do. Men and women sacrifice time with family, and a good majority of their lives to keep us free. Some have made the ultimate sacrifice. We as American's not just on Memorial Day but every day should show honor, and respect to those who have paid that ultimate sacrifice. As well as simple thank you to those who serve, it is the least we can do.

Happy listening, and happy Memorial Day!

Blessings, Love & Music ~
Ava xo
www.avaaston.com

Thank You

Freedom Isn't Free. Thank You.

November 11th is special for one reason and one reason only, our Veterans.  This day is a very special day.  It is a day we take the time to reflect on and honor all the men and women who have been so brave to offer their lives a living sacrifice for all Americans and the rest of the free world.  They do it not because they are forced or obligated.  They do it for the love of country and the compelling nudge in their heart that is to serve.

Some of you know I am very much a strong supporter of our military and the Veterans.  Even though I am married to a veteran, and my mom works for the Military Order of the Purple Heart and have a father-in-law who also served, I still have a special place in my heart for each and every one of them.  There is something unique and special about each of them.  Those of us who have never served will never truly know what it is that unites them all in this amazing capacity.

What saddens me about our Veteran's is the number of obstacles they face.  This year, like many years lots of our veterans and their families will suffer in a number of ways.  There are thousands who are homeless and many more who are struggling to just get by.  This is in addition to the many who suffer wounds, some we will never see that have dramatically changed their lives.  Many others struggle without being able to get jobs or hold down jobs, while others can't find ways to cope with the transition back to being a regular citizen.

The sad truth is that they often have no place to turn and don't know what resources are available to them.  What is worse is that because there is so much beaurocracy in the VA system some vets are waiting up to 2 and 3 years before they can be granted the benefits they so humbly have earned through their sacrifice.  On top of that, they have to struggle and navigate the red-tape and frustration of the VA Hospital system.  It is one where it can take months and even several years to get things diagnosed and appointments for certain procedures.  Let alone just even to set an appointment for a routine exam... It is a muckery sandwich to say the least.

If you ask me there is no excuse.  Our Veterans are a quiet group of people who willingly put their lives on the line every single day.  They do this in order for the rest of us to live in the peace and enjoy the many freedoms we take for granted.  Because of those who died we can vote.  Because those who serve we can still speak freely.  Because lives are on the line we can sleep well at night.  Yet for no excuse I can imagine these brave souls are constantly misunderstood and mistreated.  If you ask me our Veterans should never have to wait in line and should never have to deal with bureaucratic red-tape - NEVER FOR ANY REASON.  They need to be revered and held with esteem and given any help they may need.  This year, I am encouraging each of you to do something to help a veteran.

Blessings, Love & Music~
Ava xo :)
www.avaaston.com