Let’s all join with the players of the NFL, NBA, and all others who wish to take a knee during the national anthem.
Let’s take a knee in thankfulness to our Creator for the preservation of our nation through times of distress, through numerous conflicts in which we were only victorious because of divine intervention.
Let’s take a knee in thankfulness to God for the inspiration of a group of good men who formulated in their minds the creation of a Constitution that has guided us so well for not a few centuries.
Let’s take a knee in gratitude for those brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we might enjoy the liberty and freedom that is the envy of the entire world.
Let’s take a knee in humility that we are so blessed as to be able to share our disagreements without recriminations. (Or have we lost that liberty already?)
During the battle for independence from England, there was a popular tune sung by the British in derision of the colonial troops. It already had numerous verses in European countries in their native language and was a light-hearted jibe at life. It became a volley back and forth with English verses alternately aimed at the Americans as well as at the British. It became known as “Yankee Doodle” and was sung with pride by the colonists and has actually become the state song of Connecticut.
So let’s follow the example of “Yankee Doodle” and take a knee with the professional athletes as a way of showing respect for the flag, our country, our police, our military and, not the least, our Eternal Father in Heaven from whom all blessings flow.
Roger Kidd
Fairview