By Elaine Marie Cooper
I had a very discouraging book signing last night in Saratoga Springs, NY for my novel, “Saratoga Letters.” Don’t get me wrong. Everyone at the bookstore was so friendly and great to work with. Visitors were interested and gracious. What discouraged me was the lack of local interest in a significant historical site just 15 miles away.
The discussion with the visitors and staff mainly focused on the history of the town itself: What buildings had burned. When the town was in its downturn. When the gentry from New York improved the scenery—and raised the rents.
When I brought up their town’s involvement in the huge bicentennial commemoration of the 1777 battle that was the turning point of the American Revolution —it’s listed in the top 15 most significant battles in history—blank expressions stared at me. This battle paved the way for the creation of a completely new country based on life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The success of the American Patriots at Saratoga drew in both financial and military support from Europe. Without it, America’s chances of winning against the most powerful army in the world would have been nearly impossible.
Without the Battle of Saratoga, we might not be Americans.
Here, practically in their backyard, was a memorial of the most significant battle in the formation of our country. My research for the bicentennial in 1977 showed their town was involved in a big way in the event. None of the visitors to my book signing were aware that folks had come from around the world to attend. Or that Today Show personality Tom Brokaw was the guest speaker. Or that a huge ball was held in the town’s Casino ballroom to honor those who fought for freedom just a few miles away, 200 years prior.
I was disheartened.
Yet I had to reflect on my own heart and the things that should be right in front of my eyes that I often miss.
In my world, I can be myopic when it comes to what is important around me. Do I stress about deadlines or other obligations while forgetting the bigger picture? Do I get so involved putting out the fires of a busy schedule burning on my planner that I don’t read God’s Word and forget WHY I’m writing for Him?
Just as the nearby battlefield of Saratoga should be a reminder to the Saratoga Springs residents about the freedoms they enjoy, my focus should be on writing to honor the Lord and do His work, rejoicing in the freedom this country offers me to write without fear of persecution. To write for His glory.
May I never forget the spiritual battles in my own backyard. May I always keep my focus on the Savior who fought the ultimate battle against sin so that we can be spiritually free. May I use the liberty won at Saratoga so long ago, to write for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who gave His all for my freedom from sin.
