I love flag wavers. I guess, that's true because I think of myself as one. I love America, and "Old Glory" is a symbol of all the good I see in our great nation. I get a little emotional when I recite the "Pledge of Allegiance"; my eyes tear a little at the singing of "The National Anthem"; I get bothered when people who enjoy the benefits of America don't act respectfully when "The Star Spangled Banner" is played or sung; and I get down right angry when our national flag is desecrated in any manner. I never had to go overseas and fight under our flag, but I deeply respect and admire those who have, because their lives were given and their blood was shed to protect the freedoms we hold dear in America.
William Tyler Page wrote what he called "The American's Creed." It, along with these other patriotic tunes and recitations, is worthy of our consideration. It, too, should touch something deep inside the breast of every loyal and proud American. He said, "I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people, whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect Union, one and inseparable, established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it; to support its Constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its flag; and to defend it against all enemies."
God would certainly agree with the spirit of that sentiment, because he inspired Paul to write the following about the Christian's attitude toward government: "Let every soul be in subjection to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God; and the powers that be are ordained of God." - (Rom. 13:1). Hmmm, maybe there's something to that old bromide - "America: love it, or leave it."
Lonnie Ritchie