Once again, there are disagreements in our country. However, this time I think it's been taken too far regarding respect towards the country as a whole, what it represents, and what it has been through is starting to be disregarded. I began seeing people either disregarding what occurred at the NFL game on Sunday night and also those who stood up for why they did not honor our nation’s anthem.

Then there were times I would be sitting in an open environment and people I was with would start sharing their opinions and some sat funny with me. I discovered some people are unaware of what they may be protesting towards but they believe everyone has a say so they stand with the protesters.

Although, I believe in freedom of speech, as does this entire country and our founding fathers. I believe respect comes with that freedom and in situations like this, I think our right is abused and respect is disregarded.

1. The men and women who gave their lives for this country

The American Flag represents the 1.3 million lives given to this country just through wars we have fought in. Not only do we stand in pledge of allegiance to our nation but the lives at risk each and everyday so we can feel more secure each day.

2. “United We Stand”

Most Americans have been taught and have repeated those words more times than can even be considered to be counted. We stand as one through the many battles and as one country we figure out our differences.

3. There is a bigger picture that the flag represents than I can ever fully explain

The flag may look like three colors woven together to be a symbol of our country, but the meaning behind it is much more. With a mix of our nation’s history, successes, and all who have formed it into the country it is today, it represents more than one disagreement on an opinion.

4. The American flag represents the American Dream

Our nation’s flag is something many look to as a reminder to fight for the American Dream. If citizens of the U.S. begin treating the Dream with disrespect, then what does that say to the direction our country is headed in?

5. There are too many aspects of this to understand enough to protest

The issue at hand encompasses one event that is pea-sized compared to what our country is as a whole. Why does disrespect towards all our nation’s past leaders need to come into play?

6. Respect in and of itself

With all of the issues that pop up in this country, the solution seems to be to respect and love those who disagree with you and have different opinions. What makes disrespecting someone’s personal opinions any different than disrespecting a country’s soul? Respect should be shown towards all things.

7. Personal disagreements should not effect your respect for this country as a whole

An all around known freedom we have in this country is the freedom of speech. When we take this freedom and use it in a negative way in regard to this nation, it speaks poorly towards how we as U.S. citizens will handle disagreements and this behavior can escalate to something much greater the next time citizens choose to not agree with the flag.

8. America has imperfections. Doesn’t everyone?

This one explains itself and includes citizens, leaders, and representatives.

9. This generation has a “you lead; I’ll follow” mindset.

As I stated earlier, this generation is all about making sure everyone can live life how they want and will support whoever they can. However, sometimes it is not done before receiving all information and realizing what they are doing is the best way about solving the issue. Especially when kids decide to follow those they look up to as role models; either in the NFL or an older friend of theirs. It’s very much based on the domino effect and, “You lead; I’ll follow.”

10. It is not just about you.

If you do choose to not honor the flag during the national anthem, recognize that it will effect others thoughts, maybe in a positive way, maybe in a negative way, but it will have an effect. Each day is not just a day revolving around yourself as this country has been founded on one person that can affect more than they ever thought.