Written by Norm Southerland
As I read the review and comments from Ms. Kara Tobey regarding the Veterans Day tribute in chapel, I must admit my first reaction was to be offended. But, as a veteran of our armed forces with over 30 years of service, I choose not to be offended, but I realize that she is like so many of our citizens who just simply don’t get it.
Instead of being disturbed and confused about her loyalty to God and country, I would suggest that she consider the past thousands who have fought and died to assure that this country would be a place where she could grow up, attend a school such as Harding, worship as she pleased and just basically enjoy the freedoms that come with being an American. If she can’t do that, then she is showing disrespect for those who gave that life to her. In an ideal world we wouldn’t need the military to keep our country secure, but we don’t live in an ideal world. You may love your enemy, but that doesn’t mean he won’t try to destroy you.
Pledging allegiance to a flag that represents the very life she can lead as an American in no way usurps her belief in God or her ability to be a Christian unless she so chooses. Nor is it putting one before another. I assure you, Ms. Tobey, I consider myself a Christian, a patriot and a veteran. But as a veteran, I respect and am grateful for those who have come before me. And, as a veteran, I don’t consider myself to be any better than anyone else.
But, unlike you, I have no problem knowing who comes first in my life. I understand that the freedoms I enjoy as an American come from God.
