The 'debate' continues, only it isn't a debate per se. This lady insists on trying to discuss the issue of 'flag display', when it is not the gist of the post at all. Of course, I will display the next reply...

I agree with you....we don't seem to have any arguements here, other than perhaps somehow you've tried to tie in flying a flag with equating with "little or no responsibility".

I agree with this as well....our society has become too lax when it comes to willingly participating in community service that improves our local communites, our states or our nation. I volunteered for over 6 years at a local Vet Center here in central Iowa. I didn't get paid one dime for it, and it was the most rewarding job I've ever had. It helped a great many of Veterans who walked into the facility, and their families.

What ideas do you have on "earning" the right to display our flag? My grandfather, who served in the Army in WWII made sure I could one day continue to fly the flag....remembering and honoring all it represents. Although I know he would have been very proud of my volunteer service in the Vet Center program, it wouldn't have made one bit of difference to him....because HE made sure I could fly that flag, and enjoy what it represents....HE did all of that so that I don't have to, if I choose not to do so.

Of course I posted a response. I kinda thought the last one would do, but since it didn't I don't have high hopes for this one either. Mainly because it says the same fucking thing, and she didn't get it the second time around, so I doubt she will. I have a feeling this is one stubborn broad. Oh wait, that is a sexist remark. Shit!!!! I need to watch that.....

First, I have not equated flying the Flag with "little or no responsibility". It was an 'example'. It was an example used to illustrate another point entirely, the point being that some people in this country have the mentality that just the act of displaying a flag constitutes an action worthy of receiving all the benefits that come with being a US citizen. And, as I said before, I have no problem with ANYONE displaying the Flag, even if it is for the reasons as stated in the example above. I have no problem with the 'action'; the concept I would have a problem with is the reasons behind the action if they are not honorable. I know it can be difficult to distinguish between the two, but I do so only to stress the point that it is the 'mentality' in my original post that I wished to bring out, not any issue about displaying the Flag.

Here's another example concerning that mentality. There are those that believe they are entitled to a living just by virtue of getting out of bed in the morning. I have no problem with someone getting out of bed in the morning, but if that is all they accomplish, I would have a problem with that concept.

As far as earning the right to display our Flag, it's as simple as taking care of one's business in a conscientious and constructive manner, whatever that business may be. That is what makes this country great, people putting forth honest effort in honest endeavors. As far as I'm concerned this is everyone's responsibility.

For example, I have relatives that served in the military. My father, stepfather, uncles, grandparents. That does not 'earn' me any rights whatsoever. It earned me freedom, and responsibilities. What earns me any rights at all is seeing to my responsibilities, what I do every day to constructively keep this country as great as it is. The same goes for my children. I served in the military, but that gives them no rights when they are capable of earning their way. And as far as I feel about them, they know that the minute they shirk their responsibilities as citizens of this country, I will be the first one in their face telling them about it, because that is one of my responsibilities, not only as a citizen, but as a human being.