Fourth Of July

The Fourth of July is upon us with displays of patriotism and national pride, however, I take exception to those who would wear the flag as clothing. How disrespectful. Most have not earned the right to wear the flag in any manner and flag hats, shirts, pants, swimsuits, even underwear are a sad commentary on the state of true patriotism in this nation. I wonder if any of these people gave even the slightest thought to the fact that the white stripes signify purity and innocence or that the red signifies hardiness and valor. It is also the color of the blood that was shed making this country free. Americans have shed rivers of blood for the precious ideal of freedom and not just American freedom, but the freedom of other nations and peoples. That blood runs just as red and just as freely to this very day. The blue signifies perseverance, vigilance and justice. When we have been slack in those three vital attributes we suffered for it. The red and white stripes signify the 13 new states that were formed by the Constitution of these United States, a timeless document that is the epitome of clarity of thought and purity of purpose. The stars on the blue background enumerate the states currently in this union. Blue is also the color of the heavens above that surround us all and the location of stars in our universe.

I find none of the lofty attributes symbolized by our flag emblazoned on some dolt’s backside or some airhead’s bosom. I will render due honor and faithfulness to the flag and country for which it stands, I will love it, cherish it, protect it and respect it, but I will not wear some shabby replica…ever. I have earned the right to wear the real thing; and I will, for a little while, soon enough.
---William Fortner 2010---