Friday, July 03, 2009
Chalk up another one
Ever since Francis Scott Key wrote the words to our national anthem, there have been numerous attempts to write better ones, so far to no avail, The Star Spangled Banner
continues to stand alone as the single most representative icon of America's place in the world of nations. The marching bands and fluttering flags never fail to produce the chills and pride most Americans feel as old glory passes by. and who can ever doubt the powering effect they have. Despite all the trappings, the pomp and circumstances and the towering expressions of love of country these things evoke, we know how meaningless they would be but for the sacrifices of those willing to lay down their lives to keep the spirit burning and the beasts of hunger, war and poverty from our doors. The drum beats of marching bands can raise our hackles and the sight of old glory snapping in the breeze can make us wonder how we ever got to be so lucky. The sight of our children standing at attention in the school yard reciting the pledge of allegiance to our flag can cause us to wonder no more.Its something that once you get the hang of you never stop remembering how.
George Morin
Auburn, Ga.
continues to stand alone as the single most representative icon of America's place in the world of nations. The marching bands and fluttering flags never fail to produce the chills and pride most Americans feel as old glory passes by. and who can ever doubt the powering effect they have. Despite all the trappings, the pomp and circumstances and the towering expressions of love of country these things evoke, we know how meaningless they would be but for the sacrifices of those willing to lay down their lives to keep the spirit burning and the beasts of hunger, war and poverty from our doors. The drum beats of marching bands can raise our hackles and the sight of old glory snapping in the breeze can make us wonder how we ever got to be so lucky. The sight of our children standing at attention in the school yard reciting the pledge of allegiance to our flag can cause us to wonder no more.Its something that once you get the hang of you never stop remembering how.
George Morin
Auburn, Ga.
