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Edited on Tue Feb-03-04 02:15 AM by rasputin1952
I have a great respect for OUR flag. It does not belong to any individual, but to an ideal; one that I hope and pray we can reach someday. The ideals of LIBERTY, JUSTICE, FREEDOM and the RIGHT to live our lives as free humans in a demanding world.
I've ranted on this before, so for the most part, I'll spare my fellow DU'ers another rant. I am not a "flag worshiper", I am a citizen of a country that the likes of which have never before been seen on this earth. The flag is a symbol of what we can become. It is not a remnant of a past age, it is a living symbol of what can become tomorrow. Just as the Constitution is a Living Document, with it's Bill of Rights so boldly added to ensure our future as a nation of freedom loving people of all colors, nationalities and faiths.
WE ARE the flag...WE ARE the Constitution...WE ARE the beacon of Liberty; regardless of what the current administration is trying to do.
Over 500 men and women have returned to this country since 'hostilities' in Iraq have been over. They all returned under that banner. Tears fill my eyes when I see these noble individuals coming home for their final rest. My father & my stepfather, as well as several uncles and an aunt have come to be taken to their graves under that banner. In time, I will be taken to my grave beneath that banner, and my son will inherit that 'piece of cloth'.
For those of you who have never heard the strains of TAPS in the distance for fallen comrades, I urge you to listen to those mournful notes; and remember that there are many who gave all of their tomorrows, so that we could have today.
To all of my veteran friends, in times of peace and in times of war, I will always be there with you. To all of my fellow citizens, regardless of how you feel about the flag, I, and others like me, will be there to defend your right to Liberty.
Thank you for letting me post this. Flame me if you will, but you cannot change the way I feel about OUR flag.
O8)
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