USGN Article - July
2000
Terry & Barbi Franklin
Written by Terry Franklin
Did you hear about the car dealer who got arrested for violating a city ordinance? His crime: Hoisting 80 American Flags around his dealership!
Seems to me we ought to pat this guy on the back. And it might be time to pause, during this month we celebrate our nation’s freedom, and think about the crying need to teach a younger generation about the flag — and what it means. Patriotism.
“Oh Terry, There you go again waving the Flag!!,” I can hear some saying. I recognize, though, that the majority of you reading this strongly AGREE with me. I’m not trying to pander to you. I recognize that there have been many Christian, flag-waving folks that have been guilty of racism, not caring about the poor and helpless in our society, and have used their freedom in less than Christian ways. But truth is, those folks are in the vast minority. And our Flag represents the best of America — our hopes and our dreams. That “...liberty and the pursuit of happiness stuff...” We need to telegraph this love and respect to our youth.
We sang recently at a Memorial Day celebration in the beautiful town of Merton, Wisconsin. Immediately following a parade, they had a short presentation with a speaker, a few songs, and a raising of the flag. It was then I noticed a startling contrast: The old-timers showed tremendous emotion and respect as the flag went up the pole. Those younger than me stood, hats on, talking, joking, messing with strollers, etc. As believers, we should celebrate our heritage as a God-fearing nation and take responsibility for leading the way, being an example to others of those who love what our country has stood for from its founding
Does it have to take a war to teach patriotism?
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©2000 Terry & Barbi Franklin.