Every morning at school, or at any sporting event, you recite these patriotic words. It is such a part of your daily routine that the question of why you do it may never have crossed your mind.

But recently, there has been a lot of debate about whether or not to have the pledge and national anthem at school or at sporting events. There are even some who flat out sit and refuse to put their hand on their heart and say these meaningful words.

There have been supporters of Black Lives Matter movement who kneel during the National Anthem because of their views on oppression of people of color. Colin Kaepernick, an NFL quarterback, is a prime example, as he gained national attention for protesting the National Anthem.

I didn’t see him at any Black Lives Matter marches or protests trying to make a positive difference for people of color. Did you?

To me, not standing during our nation’s anthem is beyond disrespectful. There are hundreds of thousands of men and women who have died for our flag and for our country. Out of the entire United States population, only less than 1% is an active military personnel.

Respect those brave people, they have sacrificed their friends, family, and their lives for you.

Our National Anthem is not about oppressing people of color, nor does it represent one particular race. It is about honoring your country and those who have sacrificed everything to give you this great land.

Mr. Kaepernick, and all those who have kneeled, there are men and women who have died for you so you have the freedom to make millions of dollars each year and to kneel during your country’s anthem because you support this movement yet sit on your ass and contribute nothing to it.

To those who do not stand for The Pledge of Allegiance or the Nation Anthem, please take a step back and think about what you’re doing.