I have just returned from Blog World 2011 in NYC. I was deeply entrenched in the learning curve I have before me, so writing my blog was not a priority for one minute. Now, that I am back home and full of new inspiration and ideas, I am going to simply dive in and write no matter the subject, the questions that stump me or insight, I will just write. I hope I will inspire others to enter the discussions I pose, as well. Until I hit the sweet spot of dialogue, I will continue writing to find the source of topics that will finally get my audience talking. And I will patiently wait and write. Today, I have a question that has bothered me for years. Rarely have I mentioned it, but it gnaws at my flanks.
Is it just me or do I see few flags gracing homes this Memorial Day? How tough is it to give two minutes thought to placing a flag somewhere beyond your front door? I don’t understand how it is that I am lucky enough to live on one of the most sought after streets in my city, surrounded by neighbors that are considered among the cream of the crop in social circles. Again, I am the oddity on my block who would rather spend a quiet evening chatting with the Kamikaze’s and their friends, rather than ensure I am invited to the all-important social gala of the year. However, I do enjoy an evening of dressing up and rallying for an inspirational cause. But, I have lived in my downtown Brownstone for six summers and not one year have I witnessed one neighbor, other than me, don a front yard Stars and Stripes symbol to honor the men and women who have given their lives for our freedom.
I can only guess that it is everyone’s prerogative to not participate by setting out a country flag. But, no matter one’s opinion on the US military, one thing is easy for me, to recall that human’s before me, gave the ultimate in sacrifice by representing the US as they saw fit to allow me the ability to write my opinions whether anyone else agrees or not. Happy Memorial Day
On The Way To Happy 
You are absolutely correct. It seems that the only thing people think about in this day in time, is the barbecue their going to have and the drinks they’re going to ingest and an extra day off from work. I am fortunate that I live in an area with many Veterans who still respect and honor our Flag, but I, too, see neighborhood after neighborhood with no sign whatsoever that they have any feeling about the Country they are so fortunant to live in. My friends, who have lived abroad, not only have the Flag displayed on Memorial Weekend, but most still have it on their cars as most Americans did for a short time after 9/11. I bet even the many Members of Congress, while on this current “recess”, also do not fly the “Colors” during this most reverent of holidays. Too bad we have become so complacent and self absorbed; this may signal our end as a great Nation. Thank you for your commitment to displaying your patriotic feelings, I only wish more Americans did it, too.
Yea, I just don’t know what to think sometimes. Try to be open to whatever, but I selfishly miss seeing all the flags in my community. Thanks for your comments.
well, i have had a flag on my door for a week… inspired some years ago by my neighbors who always have a full old glory and a flag pole setup that is there all year long…
maybe if this war had a draft more of us would be mindful of the cost of war.
it does strike me that folks would be more respectful of the sacrifice if it touched more of us. i hear folks discuss this sacrifice with: hey it is their JOB.
well, that may be true, but they aren’t driving a city bus.
I am fortunate to live in a community in Central Florida that is full of patriots. Our flag decorates homes all across The Villages including my own. I too am surprised by how few home outside my area display the flag of this country. I think to many in our younger generations do not fully understand the sacrifice of our military to cement our freedoms here and abroad. We celebrate those sacrifices today this Memorial Day.
It is interesting. But, I too, had my flags out. And was just perplexed why the retired General neighbor had nothing displayed. But, I hate to judge, he may quietly celebrate in his own way. Thanks for your comment. Happy Summer to you!