OPINION:
Kneeling when the national anthem plays means disparaging the essence of America (“NFL television ratings see increase for most packages,” Web, Nov.9). This country enjoys glorious freedoms and does not suffer injustices demanding the offensive behavior endorsed by the NFL.
“The Star-Spangled Banner” provides the majestic musical symbol of the U.S. Constitution I swore to support and defend. My allegiance requires standing for the anthem and kneeling to pray for the country. These actions derive from the indefinitely binding oath I took as a Navy officer. Veterans understand grievances can be resolved within reverence for our nation.
I am deeply aware that when armed forces members make the ultimate sacrifice they are wrapped in “The Star-Spangled Banner” in remembrance of freedom. When America’s fallen arrive at Dover Air Force Base from the Middle East, their caskets are covered with the flag. When they are buried the flag is removed, elegantly folded and given to a spouse, child, sibling or parent.
In earlier generations, success in life was defined by marriage, raising kids, having a career, etc. Now a fashionable consensus defines success as one group adjusting its behavior to validate the emotional damage others have decided to inflict upon themselves for endless perceived slights. The instigators gain prestige without accomplishments. The subservient parties acquire a costless moral superiority by holding themselves and the country in disgust.
I choose success through the hazards and uncertainties of personal freedom over sheltering within such co-dependent relationships. This country needs “a new birth of freedom” in order to remain faithful to the Constitution as the embodiment of the American ideal.
NOLAN NELSON
Eugene, Ore.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.