There may be a time and a place for everything, but sometimes some people find it necessary to be blatantly disrespectful during the wrong moments. Colin Kaepernick’s decision to not rise for our national anthem is a direct example of pure disrespect. Regardless of if you agree or disagree with what Kaepernick was trying to express, you must understand the concept of saving your opinion for the proper time. Kaepernick has not only failed at trying to send his message, he has also disrespected the ones who give everything in order for him to have the opportunity to play professional football and receive millions in return. When the national anthem plays, you should rise and respect the lives of fallen heroes while praising current veterans and active soldiers who make the ultimate sacrifice. This is what it all comes down to; young men and women risk their lives every day for our freedom. How dare someone in a public position be so blatantly disrespectful?
Kaepernick, of course, has the right to say what he wants and act freely in his own actions. However, he is bashing the very establishment that gives him the ability to speak freely as a free American citizen. This was a terrible way to try and make a stance on any sort of matter, especially one of such great magnitude. In addition, this was a terrible move on his part in regard to his own professional career. The backlash Kaepernick is receiving will remain a stain on his legacy far after he retires. Also, Kaepernick has been benched and may be released from the San Francisco 49ers. I can't see how it would he easily appeal to any other NFL organization after behaving in the most disgusting way possible.
An athlete of Kaepernick's public image has to realize how far his actions will go. Everything Kaepernick or any other professional celebrity does is put under a microscope. Kaepernick has just sent a message to America. The fans who watch him play every week now feel betrayed that someone would have such blatant disrespect for our country. There is always a time and a place for everything. Being in America gives you the ability to say what you want. However, just because you can certainly does not mean you should. Kaepernick will learn from his mistakes. Over these next few weeks as the 2016 NFL season approaches, it will be very interesting to see the effects of Kaepernick's words. Kaepernick could have gone about this in a much more mature manor and possibly made the difference he was seeking. This is yet just another example of professional celebrities trying to make a statement in an inappropriate manor.
