Monday, June 13, 2016

Flag Day 2016 - Thoughts for today

Tuesday is Flag Day. When I was first thinking of this, I hadn't heard about the tragedy in Orlando yet. Today, many flags are at half staff,



in remembrance of those who lost their lives by hate of someone else. The flag symbolizes many things, the 50 states, bravery, suffering, purity. For each of us, it represents something more personal, emotional, contemplative. It is said that naturalized citizens from foreign countries have a different perspective on what the flag means than natural born citizens. Americanism is a somewhat vague concept, but is felt by most of us, especially in time of tragedy or historical reference. Flag day isn't as well known as other national celebration days. It isn't a day off, but its the day the Flag was adopted. Its known around the world, but has the most meaning to us. Whether in times of trouble or tragedy, abundance or success, the Flag remains, constant and diligent, but only because of the people who make up what it stands for.