My friends and I disagree on different occasions. For example: If a group of young women, who offer nothing of merit to society or humanity in general other than their ability to kick a spotted ball or throw a heavy weight, wish to turn a back to our flag or kneel during our national anthem I say have at it. I figure we can’t have it both ways. The fact that a group of individuals who have been coddled, pampered, and entitled all their lives because of their athletic prowess can embarrass their country and disrespect their leaders whenever they wish without fear of reprisal is what make us great and separates us from other countries. I think the fact that their actions, though inappropriate, are tolerated shows what a great country we have. So I won’t be spending any time grousing about the picture of the young woman with her back turned toward our flag. I, instead, will bring to mind the picture I first saw as a student in history class---back when history teachers still loved America. Six Marines proudly raising the flag on Iwo Jima after so many of their fellow soldiers had give up their lives for the honor of doing so. Nor will I waste a second thought on those who choose to kneel during our national anthem. Instead I will think back to September 25th, 2001. The date of the first baseball game at Yankee Stadium after 9/11. All the players stood along one foul line and NYC first responders stood along the other while TAPS was played and renditions of We Shall Overcome, Lean On Me, and God Bless America were sung. And then 33,777 fans stood in solidarity while our National Anthem was played. No kneelers that day. So I try to remember what I was taught through my entire life. To stress what makes us different from each other weakens us as a nation and as a people. To celebrate what makes us the same defines that which makes America great.