Long May It Wave

The national anthem has been on my mind as the fourth of July arrives once again. This song is sung by young and old alike, to kick off baseball games, before fireworks displays, in church services, and at community fairs. The tune is familiar and catchy, and sometimes I think we sing along without really pondering the words.

This year, as we consider an upcoming election to decide the future president and other leaders of our country, I realize just how important the United States flag is—what it represents in terms of our past, our solidarity, our purpose, and our hope for the future of this great nation.

I try to envision Francis Scott Key as he penned the lyrics to the song after rejoicing that the oversized flag had withstood the British bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1814. The flag had been sewn from more than 400 yards of fabric, as Major George Armistead had asked for a flag "so big the British would have no trouble seeing it from a distance."

That it still waved despite a long night of turmoil and assault filled Key with inspiration that became the basis for our national anthem.

In our day, I feel there are many forces that threaten to assault our liberty. To shoot holes in the freedoms we hold dear. To stir turmoil and tear asunder the very fabric of our unity. But I also believe, passionately, firmly, and with every particle of my being, that the right will prevail. That if we choose wisely, work tirelessly, and commit unwaveringly, that in the still dawn, our ideals will yet be intact. It's a big dream—one so big, we can ALL see it in the distance. And it is my hope and prayer that on this Independence Day we give thanks for those who fight for our liberties (so long ago and right now, too). I hope you join me in covering my heart with my hand in reverence to our flag, our shared symbol of our UNITED states. Long may it wave.