If you haven't heard of the Colin Kaepernick incident, let me break it down for you really quick: Colin Kaepernick is a Quarterback in the NFL, he plays for the San Francisco 49ers. In his latest preseason game versus the Packers, he decided that he didn't want to stand during the National Anthem. He didn't want to show respect for a flag that oppresses minorities.
It was a very big deal, because lets be honest, what else is there to talk about during a preseason game?
I honestly think that Mr. Kaepernick just wanted some attention. I believe he was pouting because he was a one season wonder. He brought a team to a Super Bowl, (and lost) and ever since he has been a fading memory. He requested a trade and never got it. He doesn't play much and he hasn't had the spotlight on him for a few years. This was a childish move to get some attention and then when he got called out for it he tried to make it something bigger than it was.
For what he wants everyone to believe it was about, I have one question. Why?
If you wanted to start a movement in the NFL why not do what the NBA stars did. Be respectful and speak out about it. The key word there is respectful. Is there a problem in this country concerning minorities, I'm not the one to say. I'm a white man from a small town in Nebraska. The media would certainly like me to say there is one, but I'm not going to put my arm out to be cut off by all the politically correct people out there. Mr. Kaepernick needs to take a page from Selena Gomez and "Kill em with kindness."
As a member of the armed forces I understand exercising your First Amendment.
You have the "right" to do anything your heart desires. But, do you know what the flag actually stands for? Besides the 121 medals that our Olympic team won. The US flag stands for all 50 states from sea to shinning sea. The original 13 colonies that founded this country. The flag is never supposed to touch the ground. During battle they would have guidon bearers that would carry the flag. If that man ever fell someone would pick it back up to let everyone know the battle was still being fought.
The flag stands for the men and women who have gone over seas and given there lives. They left families and friends to make sure that you could sit down while some people can't stand for the playing of our nations colors. Even Usain Bolt stands for the playing of our nations colors and he isn't even American. You can say anything you want about what is happening with minorities and you can be a big part of the change if you want to, but please don't disrespect that beautiful flag. I am willing to die for that flag, like my father and my grandfather and my cousin and my brothers and sisters in arms. The next time you want to act like a child, do it in the locker room.
Respect The Flag. Period.
