#standandsalute

✊🏼 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗙𝗟𝗔𝗚 🇺🇸

If you truly, honestly want to make the claim that your intent is promoting equality, that your genuine desire is the elimination of racism, and you want me to believe your claim, then here’s a helpful hint—STOP DISRESPECTING THE SYMBOL OF OUR SHARED EQUALITY.  

It’s incredibly simple.  If you love something, you do not disrespect it.  If you care about someone, you do not flagrantly insult them.  If you are in a relationship and you have an offense for which you desire recompense, you do not attack the very soul of that friend or burn their house down—you seek them out with respect, both for them and for yourself, and you pursue restoration.  You pursue peace, and healing.

The act of standing up and saluting the flying of the Stars & Stripes and the soaring melody of the Star Spangled Banner is as cherished and triumphant a symbol as has ever existed in the world.  Countless thousands have bled and died in that flag’s shadow, in the ultimate patriotic sacrifice for the securing of freedom not only for Americans but for many people around the globe.  This symbology is incredibly powerful, and incredibly important to the unification and strengthening of our national ethos; that ALL men are created equal.  

There is no greater value, no more compelling virtue, than the American foundation of freedom combined with equality, and the proper stand and salute to our flag and anthem is the unmistakable sign of our unwavering allegiance to these values. 

So do not say that you seek equality or oppose injustice, and then openly disrespect the symbol of that very justice and equality.  Do not speak out of both sides of your mouth, or we will not hear you at all.  Do not contradict yourself, or we will not accept your words as legitimate.   

If you really want equality and justice, then stand for it.  Honor America and her citizens, and we will join you in your quest for healing and restoration. 

Respect the flag.  It is the only real start to a real solution.