I pledge allegiance

I feel this collective sigh, being held inside, of women across the country today.

We are all trying to be brave, be strong, be open, and look forward.

We are all trying to be the best citizen we can be, to accept what we can’t change and do our part to change what we can.

But as I stood, this morning, for the pledge of Allegiance in my daughter’s classroom, I felt the weight of today deep inside me. A small tear came to the surface.

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America….”

I do love this country.

I love what we stand for. What we collectively can do in this world, stand for in this world, protect in this world.

The truth is, however, that I feel less American pride than I have in the past.

Because the person who represents us, throughout the world, doesn’t show the same American Pride that I have come to know and believe as a fundamental truth of our democracy.

For me, American pride is…

That despite our fears, we do our best to always be our best selves – to treat everyone fairly, to show toleration for one another’s ideas, to debate peacefully and respectfully.

To stand with our allies and people who have stood up for us.

To show grace in the face of intolerance.

To extend an outstretched hand to those who need us most.

As I stood and recited the words of the pledge of Allegiance, I thought about my American pride.

“…and to the Republic for which it stands…”

What do we stand for?

We, as Americans, have a shared heritage, a shared belief system, and a shared future.

We will rise and fall together.

I feel that we are less connected to these beliefs, as a country, than ever before in my adult life.

But I recognize that apathy never creates change. That silence gives power to those who are louder than us.

“…one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Our ability to rise above what doesn’t serve us, to be the best citizens and country we can be, depends on each of us continuing to be hopeful and active in standing together for what we believe in.

A piece of me feels dead, torn, lost, unheard. But I will not give in to the fear of what might be. I will speak my truth, share my truth, connect with others and have faith that the good in the world will always win out.

Thank you for being part of that vision, sharing your truth, and allowing our connection to be a vehicle for creating a world that we are proud of, together.