In the past few weeks a great deal has been made about Colin Kaepernick’s protest of the National Anthem. Many of us, even I, find this to be quite offensive. If we can remove emotion from the equation I think all of this requires a closer look.
I don’t care to crawl inside Mr. Kaepernick’s head, but I believe that even he would have to admit that this country has been pretty good to him. The millions he has made won’t buy him happiness, but he now has the ability to choose his own sort of misery. I don’t approve of the pig police socks he recently donned, but for just a moment I thought I might give him the benefit of the doubt.
This country isn’t and never will be perfect. It is however the greatest on the face of the Earth. If one is willing to work the possibilities are endless. I don’t want to try and speak for Mr. Kaepernick, but I believe he feels that someone’s not getting their fair share. Maybe someone’s not getting all the advantages that others are? While he hasn’t protested by means of encouraging riots, or arson he has started somewhat of a fire.
That fire began to burn late this week in Hamilton County. When word that the Brainerd High School football team was going to protest the National Anthem at their upcoming game phones started ringing. There is nothing that brings calm to a situation faster than when elected officials start trading phone calls.
What to do? Do we fire the coaching staff? Do we expel these hooligans? Do we hold a press conference, pat these young men on the head and tell them they have our support? Maybe a scotch and water for our elected officials and keys to the city for every member of the team? Sounds like a real win-win.
I have an idea. I just want to ask one question. What about tomorrow?
I’m not really sure what is being protested to start with. I guess that’s up to the one protesting? Who doesn’t love a TV camera? A photo op, news reporter, or an elected official to document and recognize a protest. Yes, sir! We all love 15 minutes of fame.
But back to my question. What about tomorrow?
After the Anthem is played and the sun rises on a new day what do you do? Will you be a better student? Will you be a better husband, or wife? Will you make an effort to approach a law enforcement officer and extend to them the greeting of the day? Will you show greater respect for the elderly, or the opposite sex? Will you cooperate with law enforcement the next time you see someone kill another person? Will you make a pledge to turn down drugs or a drink?
Young or old what will you do? When the cameras are gone will you kick, scream and demand that others change, or are you willing to change yourself? By seeking the best inside yourself you will only make those around you better.
Go ahead and take your stand. Make your point today, but ask yourself. What about tomorrow?
Ed Merritt
Soddy Daisy