Red and White and Blue

Completely forgot that today is Flag Day.  The one day set aside to honor the star-spangled banner.  Just three homes are displaying Old Glory- mine and the house that is the designated polling place, and one home whose owners I rarely see.  What can I say about today?  Of course, you know this entry is going to have some nostalgic overtone, but why not?  The love for my country was instilled when I was in pre-school and kindergarten- the Holy Family Day Home.

The good Holy Family sisters made sure we learned not only about God, but to have pride in our country, and for this I am forever grateful.  Learning the Pledge of Allegiance to answering the simple question, "What are the colors of the flag?"  Early 60s this patriotism was taught to my generation.  And now as an educator, I try to instill love of country to a newer generation.

I've seen our flag flown proudly over schools, buildings, picnics, theme parks.  And yet, I've seen this "piece of cloth" disfigured, maimed, burned...and all because of what a particular administration stands for.  But the beauty of it is we live in country where such things are possible.  Laud your land or the condemn its wrongdoings- where else can this be done?

I look at the flag and think of its magnificent history- from the original 13 stars to the current 50.  Our founding fathers never thought of that, but their dream came true.  Yes, between the American Revolution and today lots of wars, battles and conflicts have been fought on our soil and abroad.  And yet, this simple cloth of red, white and blue beckons those in trouble with a glimmer of hope.  We cherish our freedoms, but forget some of the symbols.  The Pledge of Allegiance has become a random recitation; let's take time to explain to our children and those who don't actually know what it means...what the pledge is all about.  It's an odd feeling when traveling internationally to see another flag and knowing that I must abide by the laws of that land.  But when I see our flag, I know I am home and safe and have laws that protect me and my loved ones.  To those men and women who have fought defending our nation, the last "vestment" worn is a draped flag over a coffin.  Keep flying those colors; invest in a flag for your home.  Political correctness be damned...I am an American first!!!  That is what I was taught and that is what I will teach. 

You're a grand old flag

You're a high flying flag

And forever in peace may you wave

You're the emblem of

The land I love

The home of the free and the brave

("You're A Grand Old Flag" by George M. Cohan)