Remembering who we are

I wanted to share a few quick thoughts in regard to this total fiasco parading as courage from some overpaid sports player. Maybe it will will serve as a reminder of who we truly are as we approach the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks: Have we really devolved to the point that some overpaid football player sitting during the National Anthem is a badge of honor? (Or as I've said on several occasions before, have we all taken leave of our senses?) Like it or not, we live in a country that is exceptional. A country unlike any other in the world, where the rights of the individual are championed, where there are no limits to what we can achieve, and where we enjoy freedom as no other man or woman has experienced in the history of the world.

We can live any lifestyle we choose without living in daily fear of being tossed off a building, burned alive or stoned to death. We can celebrate and worship and make a living as we choose, while driving the cars we want to drive or wearing what clothes we want to wear. In fact, one can play a game with a ball, and make millions doing so. We are the world's exception. Blessed beyond measure, even in the midst of our imperfections. We live with the freedom to think for ourselves and make our own decisions, even when someone else may not like them. And because we're free to think and decide as we each see fit, don't be shocked and appalled when other Americans vehemently disagree if you sit out the National Anthem. Don't expect every American to support you--just as you may not support actions taken by others who don't share your beliefs. Don't be surprised when others are offended or disappointed or angered by your actions, either. Because for many Americans, "The Star-Spangled Banner" doesn't represent one group or another, it represents a way of life. And over the course of more than 200 years, that way of life has been what mankind's best and brightest dreams are made of. You want to effect change? Take a ride-along. Bet ya any police precinct in the country would've been happy to have you spend a night shift on the streets with them. Help build safer communities. Mentor kids who don't have the luxury of the family you did. Put your money where your mouth is. Above all, remember this: Rights come with responsibility. Choices have consequences. So you can stand during the anthem, or you can sit during the anthem. But never mistake either action for courage. Thanks, Beth Author of the award-winning book Gravity, available at bethwrightunderwood.com militarywriter@gmail.com Twitter: @militarywriter Instagram: militarywriter

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