A flag is a banner under which we assemble. It is a symbol of unity. It is nationalistic, cultural, or social (or all of them). It is a symbol which draws our attention and warrants our respect.

I am American, and my flag is the stars and stripes. While I may be living in Oregon (currently), Florida has always felt like a home state to me, so that is another flag of mine. I also have German heritage, so I claim that as another flag, in a sense. And, as I claim that flag, I have to claim the flag of my "home state" in Germany: Bavaria.

But, chiefly, especially with today being a national day of observance, I am an American, and it is the stars and stripes that I fly proudly. All of us who claim to be Americans (United States of America, that is) gather under that grand ol' flag. Shame on those Americans (and I use the term loosely here) who are offended by their national flag.

Fly it with pride! Enjoy the freedoms it represents.