There has been a lot of attention to the national anthem lately. It hasn't been completely positive. For some reason an athlete decided to take a stand for an issue important to him by rejecting our flag. While he has the complete 1st Amendment right to say or convey what he wants, we also have that same right to disagree with his methods. To me, disrespecting the American flag and national anthem is akin to biting the hand that feeds you. It is that very flag and what it stands for that gives us the right to speak out. America gives him the opportunities to work hard and become an professional athlete, or any of us to strive for a dream.
His example seems to have spread far and wide to other professional athletes right down to high school athletes. As I said, while I disagree with his choice in making his point he does have that right. What I take issue with is the hypocrisy that happens when people voice their disapproval. We are suddenly called racist or that it's not ok to disagree. I see this as a trend in many areas of thought in the political realm. This goes against one of the core principles that America was founded on. The founders intended that everyone have a voice. In the land of political correctness and what the media thinks is ok, free speech is being chipped away.
Despite that, it is heartening to see some digging in and taking a stand to support America and our anthem as an answer to the protest. We need patriotism to make a comeback. I still miss the days going to sports games where all the fans would sing the anthem together. I know it is such an honor to be the one chosen to sing but let's stand together and sing as one nation, have pride in our country, and belt out the rockets red glare. There is nothing wrong with a little love for your country. Stand and be proud.
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