June 12, 2022
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. On Tuesday, June 14th, our nation will celebrate Flag Day; the symbol of Americas freedom, democracy and independence. The American flag was officially established by the Continental Congress, on this day in 1777. Our flag has changed and evolved, as our country grew and added more states. The flag is rich with symbolism for our nation. The stripes represent the original thirteen colonies. Red represents hardiness and valor. White symbolizes purity and innocence. Blue stands for vigilance, justice and perseverance. The fifty stars each represent a state of the Union. Our flag, recognized worldwide, denotes us as Americans. Yes, our flag and nation come with a history and past. America has seen the good, bad, sad and happy times many countries experience. Our country has overcome conflict and adversity, since its inception 245 years ago. We’ve evolved, learned and grown to meet many challenges; yet today, there are individuals who cling to the past, in an attempt to create fear and chaos in the present. It’s sad there are people, living in our nation, who disrespect our flag and our nation (under the guise of free speech). I miss the days when our country was actually unified and proud to be Americans. Gone are the days, standing in front of our flag, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Now, singing our National Anthem seems to be “politically incorrect” these days as well. Will that token of our national pride soon be taken away too? I know there are millions of good Americans living across our land. Now is the time we need to stand together and say, “Enough is enough! Let’s be proud and happy to be Americans!”
I’m grateful to be an American. As a kid, I learned about our flag and what it means to be an American. I respect our country and the hard working men and women that make it great. My Dads parents immigrated to the United States before 1920, becoming US citizens. My father was born and raised near the east coast. My mother and her family immigrated to America in the late 1930s. They too, all eagerly became American citizens. Both families arrived in this country via Ellis Island (where the family names are proudly displayed on the Memorial Wall). They were all grateful to be Americans. My parents grew up during the Great Depression and a world consumed by war. My father entered the US Army at the beginning of World War II. He landed on the Normandy coast on D-Day (with thousands of US and Allied soldiers). He traversed a war-ravaged Europe until the war ended. My parents were married after my Dad returned from Germany, at the end of World War II. Eventually, my family settled in Southern California; where I was born and raised. My Mom refused to teach my sister and I how to speak Italian, because she said, “We’re Americans. We speak English.” I wonder how many families think in these terms today? I doubt many people, living here, adhere to that philosophy. Some people come here, not to be Americans, but to take advantage of its freedoms and resources.
I took my oath of office, as a Los Angeles Police Officer, in 1980. I swore to uphold the Constitution of the United States and all rights it guarantees. During my career in law enforcement, I witnessed the hostility of individuals speaking out against our government, our way of life, country and flag. The distain and negative sentiments for our nation continue, even more openly today, with radical malice. I’m a firm believer and supporter of our constitution, rights and freedom. Peaceful protesting is one of these rights. I don’t consider burning our flag and yelling, “Death to America,” peaceful. It baffles me how we allow individuals to desecrate our flag on our own soil. This behavior should be criminal. I doubt there are many nations on this planet where this type of disrespect would be tolerated. If you don’t like our nation, flag, what they represent or our way of life; why are you living here? Our nation has a past and it isn’t perfect; but then no country or person on this planet will ever be perfect. Based on my observations and experience, many Americans tend to be critical of just about anything and everything these days. Please keep in mind that we (humans) aren’t perfect, especially when we analyze or pass judgement on critical incidents or each other. I’ve witnessed this behavior on numerous occasions. People rush to conclusions, often without knowing all the facts of an incident, or having any independent knowledge or expertise on the subject. Too many individuals, media included, are so hasty to be first to share a story or add their opinion; often without all the facts, while adding their own political twist. Maybe if theses outlets told the truth and just relayed the facts, their actions wouldn’t create fear, hate or further divide America.
On Thursday, news outlets reported security, in Washington DC, would be increased. They suggested there may be “unrest” due to “political differences” during the summer. Are they referring to the rising costs for fuel, food, energy and everything else? I haven’t heard any new policies, plans or ideas, from the current administration or leadership, to reverse or halt the rapidly increasing inflation. This situation, and our economy, is looking bleak. These issues could be resolved if we (our leaders) took care of our nation, businesses and industries. Instead, our leadership seems to pit political parties against one another. Why is it so difficult for these people (adults) to play nice together? Our leaders need to put our Nation and Americans first. We have our share of politicians who continue with their own twisted political agenda, deceit, lies and manipulation. My advice to America; instead of talking trash, be helpful and kind. Don’t be swayed by fools attempting to manipulate, control or push us into chaos. America was built on strength, grit, determination and hard work. Sure, we have a past (as does everyone on this planet). Let’s work together to make our nation and our planet a safe and peaceful place to live once again. Stop whining for recognition. Start working together. We’re all humans, no better or worse. A simple change in attitude can have a profound effect on your outlook and interactions. First, open your heart and soul to knowing that change is good. Now, begin each day with gratitude and a happy heart. Be compassionate and mindful; rather than judgmental or condescending. Try it out and let me know how you feel. Educate yourself by reading, while seeking truthful content and knowledge. The American Flag has been our symbol of freedom and independence for decades. Let’s respect it and our nation. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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