Celebrating 250 Years of America: Why I Still Fly the Flag

As our country celebrates 250 years, I’ve been thinking a lot about what the American flag has meant throughout my lifetime.

Somewhere along the way, we’ve allowed a symbol that was meant to unite us to become something people assume represents a political party. That makes me sad.

The American Flag Should Unite Us, Not Divide Us

For me, flying the American flag has never been about politics. It isn’t about who I voted for or which side of an issue I stand on. It’s about honoring the country that has given my family opportunities, freedom, and a place to build a life.

Remembering How America Came Together After 9/11

I remember the days following the tragic September 11 attacks. Flags appeared everywhere.

They hung from front porches, businesses, cars, schools, and neighborhoods. People proudly displayed them because we were grieving together. We were reminded that despite our differences, we were Americans first. No one looked at a flag and assumed your political beliefs. It was simply a symbol of unity, resilience, and hope.

I’ve often wished we could capture a little of that spirit again.

Patriotism Is Bigger Than Politics

As I approach my 70th birthday, I’ve learned that life is too short to let every meaningful tradition become a political statement. Some things deserve to remain bigger than our disagreements.

The American flag represents generations of people who sacrificed so that future generations could pursue their dreams. It represents military families, first responders, teachers, small business owners, immigrants who chose America as their home, and everyday citizens who work hard to make their communities better.

None of those things belong to one political party.

Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary with Gratitude

As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, I’m choosing to fly the flag with gratitude.

Gratitude for the freedoms I enjoy.

Gratitude for those who came before us.

Gratitude for the men and women who have served our country.

Gratitude that we still have the ability to debate, improve, and continue working toward a better future for generations to come.

The Flag Belongs to Every American

I hope we can remember that patriotism doesn’t have to divide us.

Maybe this historic anniversary is an opportunity to reclaim the American flag as something that belongs to all Americans—not because we all think alike, but because we all call this country home.

As someone who has watched our nation grow and change over nearly seven decades, I believe our greatest strength has always been our resilience. We’ve faced challenges before, and we’ve always been strongest when we stood together.

Here’s to celebrating 250 years of courage, freedom, perseverance, and hope.

Here’s another 4th of July post.

Happy Birthday, America.

Until next time!