Hi,
I am not a U.S citizen yet but I live here. I did not learn the Pledge of Allegiance at school, but the first time I heard it, it was during a fraternal meeting. I really loved it. Actually I appreciate to learn something on my own than having to be forced to learn in an institution such as school, church or university.
This pledge, in my opinion, holds so many virtues that are worth discussing.
I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Let me break down the pledge and share with you my understanding of it and what I like about it:
- “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America”: If you are a citizen of any country, then you must have a sense of nationalism. You love your country and wish it well. Maybe you don’t like certain things about it and get upset about other matters, but deep down you were born in it and this is the place you call home. For me, even if I am not a citizen, I still I live by the motto no matter where I am geographically: “Make the place where you live a better place”. This country has been generous to me, treated me well, so in return I shall contribute as much as I can.
- “and to the Republic for which it stands”: Here, the pledger is explaining that he’s/she’s not pledging for a piece of land, but for a Republic and for its people. The pledge will continue to explain what this Republic stands for.
- “one Nation under God”: One nation. It is very important to be united. It is important to fear God. That does not mean you have to be religious but at least you have a sense of moral and judge your actions by your inner compass. Be true to yourself and honest for there will always be balance and justice in this universe, as explained by the law of Karma. God is not the Christian, Muslims, Hindu, The Grand Architect of the Universe, or other religion’s God. God is mentioned here to assert the fact that there is intelligence in all creation and there must be a creator which we always give thanks to.
- “indivisible”: it is very important to keep the unity. Let no quarrels divide the people. One of the oldest ruses used by the enemy to break nations is to “Divide and Rule“. The pledge reminds us to stay indivisible. During hardship, we should put all our differences aside and work together for the common good.
- “with liberty and justice for all”: Liberty and justice for all is emphasized in the constitution. No wonder why the USA is famed for being the land of the free. Without liberty and justice, no country can survive the calamities. People will revolt sooner or later. Justice and liberty always bring harmony, prosperity and the best in people.
I see this pledge applicable in one’s life, disregarding the geographic location or the land one lives in. The virtues that this pledge embodies are so sacred and inspirational.
May the USA continue to live and exist by this pledge and what it represents.
May the rest of the world follow by example.
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