The opening and closing scenes of this movie are significant and worthy of your attention on this June 14th, Flag Day in the United States.
Never mind the fact that the movie tells a good story, it also demonstrates the widespread ignorance associated with the treatment of our national flag. In the opening scene, the main character portrayed by Tommie Lee Jones is explaining to the janitor of a school the proper way to raise a flag.
Whether you agree or disagree with the policies of the federal government, there is a place for civility and respect in society. There are lots of ways to show that - like standing when our President enters the room, even if I disagree with him. Another is the proper treatment of our national banner.
At the end of the movie, Tommie Lee Jones is again with the janitor and they are talking about how an upside down flag indicates distress. This is so true on many levels, not just in the movie, but in our lives in general.
Today is a good day to think about the stars and stripes by reviewing the link to flag etiquette.
Furthermore, the Israelites lined up around banners/flags. From Numbers 2
1Now the LORD spoke to Moses and to Aaron, saying, 2"The sons of Israel shall camp, each by his own standard, with the banners of their fathers' households; they shall camp around the tent of meeting at a distance.Another thought -
Remember who triumphed in the Valley of Elah?
I'll have to put the movie on my Netflix list. My husband was into scouting when younger and as a result has been a stickler on flag etiquette as long as I've known him. We fly a flag every day, not just on holidays. It has to be replaced often and interestingly, you have to watch closely to acquire a flag made in the US. Many are made in China!
ReplyDeleteI don't think MOST people think about the flag at all. We fly ours proudly! Thanks for visiting my little blog!
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