Soldiers' words inspire music

LEHI — Inspiration for Jaden Bliss' songs often comes from the soldiers she writes about.

• "Thank you so much for your love for us. I've been through a lot of battles here. The freedom that we live in is taken for granted, and you help us in so many ways. . . I have four kids, and they miss me so much, and I miss them, too."

• "(M)y brother served in Iraq for a year, and he's often talked about how frustrating it was to hear the news completely putting down what they're trying to do to help the people of Iraq and not even mentioning at all (what) is actually being accomplished over there. He heard your song a couple days ago and by the end of the song there were tears streaming down his face. So few people realize how they hurt the troops they claim to support by what they say about this war and how they report it on the news."

• "I'm a soldier serving in Afghanistan, and it warms my heart to know the youth of America (are) proud and support the troops. ... Thank you again for the CD. it makes the days not seem so bad."

• "I awoke yesterday morning to the most beautiful song on the radio. Imagine my surprise when the DJ, Dickie Shannon, said it was written and performed by a Lehi Junior High student. ... I so appreciate the fact that, as a young girl, you are able to comprehend and honor these service people with your words and actions."

• "They say in the Army, things don't happen on the front line unless the support happens . . . go figure! Our chaplain passed out copies of your CD during our church service recently. Happy to say it was a great morale booster."

• "Thank you so much, Jaden, I'm old enough to be your grandpa, but you are my hero."

E-mail: rodger@desnews.com