The first time I really understood there was something wrong with the idea of US "superiority", was when I was 16, and an exchange student to Colombia. A 12 year old Colombian boy was more well-versed on the aspects of Watergate, than I was. It had probably happened when I was about his age, but he was asking me questions, and I couldn't answer. It had been a failure on our part, but we obviously didn't want to dwell on the mistake. We can see where that got us. I joined the military and took the oath to defend Constitution and country. Will our current military respect the flag (nationalism) or the people, when the real test comes? Blind allegiance will not serve us well.
I watched all the watergate hearings in my late 20’s in the last months of pregnancy with my oldest son. It inspired me to go to law school and after practicing law for 20 years to spend 15 years helping parents by doing family mediation. I owe my career to a couple of bumbling burglars and a liar of a president. Oh, the irony.
@@drjanitor3747 You accept what you know as truth until you understand someone else has a different viewpoint, which is also valid. If the US has a problem, it will not improve if we are both ignorant and apathetic. Think about who the Enemy was/is. Is it that group we really have problems with? Or, is it their leaders? Who says THEY are the enemy? Why do you believe the ones who say it? We still think we have a free and democratic country. It is a lovely illusion.
I used to have a tee shirt that said “QUESTION AUTHORITY” about 50 years ago. The thought was to think things through for yourself and don’t just say “okay.”
@@steveneptun7580 there’s a difference between questioning and defying. First question whether the authority is asking for obedience to laws in line with the constitution, and if so, you’ve done your questioning and can be accountable for whichever decision you make. Erich Fromme wrote a book as Hitler came to power called “ Escape From Freedom” describing taking the easy path of letting someone else be the boss.
The Maple Leaf flag was officially adopted February 15, 1965. It was very controversial. Prime Minister Pearson (himself a World War I veteran) felt that the negative reaction to the Red Ensign flag during the Suez crisis (Egypt refused to accept Canada's participation in a U.N. peacekeeping force because we would "be on the side of Britain") signaled that Canada needed a flag that showed that we were a separate entity from Great Britain. He was right, but it was very hard for people who had lived their entire lives and fought two world wars under the Red Ensign to accept the change. In the end, it's a symbol, not something to be worshiped like an idol. “By their deeds you will know them."
When I started school in 1950, the first things we learned were "The Pledge Of Allegiance To The Flag" ( not the US Constitution, BUT to a piece of cloth ), "The Star Spangled Banner" ( a war song ) and the "Battle Hymn of the Republic" ( a song that merges religion with war ). That's why Conservatives are Conservatives. Maybe we should have learned "America The Beautiful" instead.
I had a friend who had a bumper sticker which read, "Question Authority." My response was, "Question Authority - Except Mine." I was taught critical thinking in school. Unfortunately, I had to teach my children those skills. And logic. Only a few have figured out that when I say this, I'm not just trying to get a laugh. I'm trying to get people to think and talk about what it means to question. ❤
Yes. Flags and symbols get co-opted all the time. The flag of St George no longer represents the best of England, many times it represents the worst of our sports teams supporters. Politicians who lead with the flag often have no value to their manifesto.
The SYMBOL is only as great as what it REPRESENTS. Just as I believe my faith is only as strong and real as what it guides and inspires me to think, believe, and do, in my words, my actions, my set of beliefs, and in how I treat other people (who are ALL my neighbors).
As one born during WW2 and reared in 1950s America it has seemed to me my parents understood devotion to country more personally, perhaps because it had cost them something of possess; a price which later generations have not had to pay.
When a large percentage of the population possesses such extreme wealth that. these super wealthy live a seperate sphere of reality that.... is when oppression to nation's populations begins. We now have theses factors that, American had't possesed in such a wide discrepancy.
Thank you Rev Ed for your message about greatness! We need to hear that and act on it. At my advanced age, I can look back and see how I, along with most people around me, grew up in a society that encouraged material achievement. I was a decent enough person, but I didn’t spend my time thinking about creating a great life for myself and others that reflected the values you just talked about. I thought about improving my material welfare and thereby, my social status. How sad that is, because I think most Americans were and still are, thinking that way.
Believe the same... Look at today's society ... It's all about million and billionairs!! How can the rest of the nation achieve any level of respectwith this materalism, money and wealth worship dominating our beliefs??
Your talk today reminds me of an old rock song by Crosby Stills and Nash call teach your children well. The thing that I like in the song Teach Your Children Well to teach your parents well. I for one have learned a lot from my children about who I am and what I believe.
Remember when the song 1st came out. Super strict conservative parents unafraid to iniate violence to win their parental control. Yes, my siblings and I where just getting old enough to begin rebelling against their methods of parenting and the callous style of their peers form of governance....Late 1960's. Now with Tramp at the helm we will devolve civilly back, to those harsh and unfair standards of governance and civics....,groan!!
Yes!! “Will my behavior today harm another living thing today, namely a human?” If yes, do not ever do it. Ethics is just one rule: love your neighbors. One rule, not 10.
I am so thankful that I was born in America. As a woman, I am grateful that I do not live in Afghanistan or anywhere in the Middle East. Women are treated horribly in these Countries. The US is far from being perfect, but I would rather live here than anywhere else. I thank my ancestors for coming to America. Sometimes people don't know how good they have it until they visit a different Nation.
Seek justice for the poor and marginalized, love mercy for all of Gods creation, walk humbly with your God. That’s what I wrote on my grandsons card. And I think I will write it on all cards going forward.
Thank you so much Rev 💜 anti consumerism, service to your community and self care are forms of resistance as well please do not forget that. Also bringing on tyranny to my women's group so thanks for that too Padre
I love the idea of cheerful resistance, being ”green” for my grandchildren, pushing back against greed with generosity, against hate with love, going against pushing the poor down by lifting our voices on their behalf(I’m old, so no cussing), and in general being an ever present persistent face of cheerful in your face resistance.
You got me thinking! Every year I put together a vision board. I think it might be time for that vision board to expand past my immediate life and dwell totally upon what I want my country to be like. Might be an interesting thing to do as a group effort. Thanks for the words, Rev. As always they have me thinking and acting a bit better.
I would add asking adults to consciously accept and display these qualities so that there will be perfect examples and role models all around and then we will no less see as a result happiness, joy and gratitude everywhere! What a wonderful world!
"Every era needs it's symbols to control it's people. Be it the stars and stripes or the hammer and sickle." - Big Momma (Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns if the Patriots)
That's exactly 💯 how I feel as an American right now Like I straight up want to ask Superman if he actually existed, What Does Truth, Justice, and the American Way, even mean Supes? Whatcha fighting for when we don't even live up to The Pledge of Allegiance core statements? And where a high profile NFL QB like Colin K is run out of the league at his peak, because he led a movement of taking a Knee before the game So that police brutality might be more closely scrutinized Or when many want prayer 🙏 brought to the classroom, but refuse to allow Free or discounted breakfast or lunch for the poorest in their classroom
As an individual U.S. citizen I feel I must put the question , How do WE THE PEOPLE get past the hollow reverence of the mere symbols of OUR NATION , And back to an actual appreciation of the ideals upon which IT WAS FOUNDED, When did our adoration of our iconography , supplant OUR STRIVING TO ACHIEVING that MORE PERFECT UNION ! And how do WE THE PEOPLE get back to investing in our great NATION's evolution toward our HIGH IDEALS , Instead our current trend selling off OUR ASSETS AND FUTURE to the highest bidder for the profit of THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE AND CORPORATIONS IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD ! And how do you , a Canadian see it so much clearer than WE THE PEOPLE ?
If more Americans learned about their own country’s history, instead of its mythology, it would help. For example, many Americans argue that your civil war was about States rights, but as Ken Burns so eloquently puts it: “I think what happens is that we build up over time the sense of an excuse about why it came,” Burns said. “If you read … South Carolina’s articles of secession in November - after [Abraham] Lincoln’s election of 1860 - they don’t mention states’ rights, they don’t mention nullification. They mention slavery over and over again.”
This was beautiful! Please make it into a short or reel so that people who don’t follow you can see it. I’ll share the video but unfortunately few will invest the time to listen. 🙏🏾❤️
I will always consider kneeling during the anthem a form of prayer for our country. Plenty of people don't take off their hats or get off their phones, either.
Had to look up the old flag. Overly imperialist, in my opinion. New flag is much better. Everyone likes leaves. Great stuff, Canada- keep up the good work!
I was always pledging to the ideals of America: Equality, Community & Freedom. Why did others pledge themselves to a flag, why did they take it so literally? Pretty sure I understood what I was saying by 8yo. 😢
The one and only thing that have tried to teach my children is to ONLY believe the things that can be DEMONSTRATED to be TRUE. There are as many ideologies as there are people, but only a fraction of those people can DEMONSTRATE their ideologies to be "FACTUAL" in REALITY, and BENEFICIAL to society. I'm glad to see that some Christians are thinking about what's BENEFICIAL to humanity, even if you still have "faith" in something that CANNOT possibly exist in REALITY.👍 I apologize if my wording is offensive, but "REALITY" doesn't comport to our "beliefs". It just is what it is, whether you are comforted by it or not. I love Rev Ed, and his philosophy on life, but I still can't except the "TRUTH" of this "god" he believes in, as demonstrated by reality. If you can convince me otherwise, I'm ALWAYS open to the discussion. Thank you for you tolerance and and understanding.😌
Well the first thing I thought about is the hundreds of flags trump always surrounds himself when giving a speech somewhere. Since I have lived and worked in many countries I paid little attention to any flags other then their designs. They are kind of interesting.
I absolutely agree with Mr Sophie however I would remind you that when I was a kid in the 50s the flag and the anthems showed respect and Justice and a country that was kind and taught integrity unfortunately it is no longer
With all due respect, the fifties were not the golden years for everyone. Racism, sexism, and targeting of so many different people was not only common, but legal. I think it was the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King who said, “Injustice anywhere, is a threat to justice everywhere”.
Reality check- The 1950s were also a time of horrific strife in the American South. Jim Crow laws. lynchings and other forms of violence. The House Un-American Activities disgraceful hearings with results including the gruesome executions of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg and the ruined lives and careers of some of our finest. At any given time in our history there have always been challenges and injustices to deal with. It's the American tradition of protest and willingness to confront and bring justice where and when needed that shows integrity and we should continue to strive for these ideals.
I was in my teens when the Canadian flag changed. It was Lester Pearson's gov't, I believe, and Canada was approaching its Centennial. My father died 7 months before I was born, of injuries related to his WWII experience. He saw Bergen-belsen after the liberation. My step-father lost 2 fingers from his right hand and took a bullet in his right arm in France in WWII. He never spoke of it. The change in the flag upset him, and we argued about whether or not Viet Nam was worth it. We both agreed about Hitler and WWII and that fighting that was worth the cost but I didn't buy Viet Nam. It was a wild, tumultuous time, those years. I remember the war protests, Kent State, the assassinations. And this music: ruclips.net/video/zj8FlXGPcOQ/видео.htmlsi=XnoMS3r0vreeR0Ad
Funny how when you turn off the propaganda, do a quiet time, get in the word, and for example from Thessalonians learn to increase in brotherly love, work on humility, meekness, a quiet life off the radar. And Bam, your message reaching out for God is greatly improved. How do we walk that extra mile that grabs a person by the heart ? Stand strong protect the weak.
I have said that we need to quit teaching children to pledge allegiance to A FLAG. We need to teach them to pledge allegiance the Constitution (if it is important to pledge allegiance at all): I pledge allegiance to the CONSTITUTION of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it DEFINES, one Nation indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. I chose the version that was adopted in 1923 as the basis for the new pledge. And while we are at it, let's teach the children what is ACTUALLY IN THE CONSTITUTION, and the HISTORY of the amendments.
What I find interesting are those you idolize the Flag are often seen wearing flag bathing suits and tee shirts, handkerchiefs in suit pockets, beach towels, inside Bibles. I was taught that use of the flag is disrespectful.
What gets me is that the people who are just "nationalistic" and supposedly have such "respect" for the flag, don't follow the rules for respecting the flag. The flag is never supposed to be used as clothing, used for any sort of advertising, touch the ground, be rained on or used when it's dark (unless there is a floodlight illuminating it at all times.) Yet, the idjuts who have the most flags are wearing flags (although some have Trump somehow substituted on them or advertising something), and dragging the flags on their vehicles (night and day, no matter what the weather). Their "respect" has nothing to do with love of country or understanding about the flag, but only their narrow view of the nationalism they want. I have a friend who is a retired marine. He is often outraged by the mishandling of the US flag by those nationalists. He keeps a pile of photocopies of flag protocols/etiquette. Surprisingly, the nationalists get very upset with him when he gives them the information, as if it is too "woke" to actually care for the flag. But it shouldn't surprise any of us, because those same people think Jesus' message is "too woke." Yes, we do indeed need to teach our people to love justice, inclusion and humanity. Chances are then they'd understand that as they properly respect the flag because it truly stands for something worth respecting.
Spin*Control Round and round you*go, where you*stop only the spin machine knows, Right to Left, Center and back, keep on spinning until you*see only black, Passing out brass rings and carrots on a stick, to expert suckers who are merely professional behind the screen licks, Up and Down with fear you’ll hop, flip-pity-flop, frightened, shy rabbits on pogo sticks, Spinning, Hurling, upside down, a roller coaster of amusement pressing us into our lazy boy seats, unable to Stand*Up through the wrenching, dizzy spin, while everyone in the lobby gives more money, to continue the ride, Who’s in control, The*People, The Promoters, The Financial Brokers, or The Criminal, Carnival, Clown Slackers, There’s only one way to*see, simply step off the merry -go- round, Stand*Up on your own, look around, take a deep breath of Fresh*Air, turn off the show that spins conflict and fear, open your mind and heart to the true reality, NOT the show, of death, destruction, hate and fear all spinning their webs to keep the seven legged spider hidden in it’s corner, while you’re wrapped and caught in the silky cocoon, comfortably misled by a puppet master pulling the strings, eager to suck the very marrow from your children's bones, and microwave their brain cells into obedient, depressed gray clones, happy-shiny, wannabe somebody their not, chatting aimlessly, from invisible cell to cell, Round and round you go where they stop only the marketing machine knows, because you’re too damn confused, sick and lying face down in the swill, as the trough fills again and again, all you*see is more little piggies grabbing your*share, babes and sheeple everywhere, While the Shepherd leads the lambs to slaughter, twisting and spinning the way of the wolf, whose wisdom and truth desires only to keep the flock roaming healthy, united and free, through the strength, unity and peaceful*change of knowing, caring and supporting the planet and its Family of Humanity . . . L.O.V.E.*Rulz Peace2*U Pro💜Love 👣🕊👽
I stopped going to church when I was around 10, when my family moved from one part of the state to another and it stopped being a social obligation enforced on my mom by her parents. I still considered myself Christian until I was around 18. I never wanted to go searching for a new Church to go to because I knew that some churches taught love and some taught that obedience was love. I've since taken on... Its somewhat agnostic in the way it ends up, but I've come to realize that 'Agnostic' is not FULLY accurate, but is close enough. Because I hold onto the hope that if there is a God, that They are truly as loving and forgiving as I was taught, and that the fire and brimstone teaching was something we made up. But I don't worship. I don't go to church. I don't pray. I decided that I will follow my heart on what Christ says, and that if acts alone are not enough? If God demands worship as well as acts? Then They are not deserving of worship. If I am condemned to Hell for that belief? Then Hell is full of those of a like mind to me, and I will be in good company. Those that demand that morality can only be through fealty to their vision of Christ do not inspire me to follow His example. If I could trust that churches would preach the way you preach? I don't know if I'd have returned to church. But I know I wouldn't hesitate the way I do now. It'd just be the normal hesitation of large social gatherings. Rather than the unknowing fear if I'm walking into a crowd that would ostracize me or my friends or my family if they learned the wrong details.
They say when great nations fall they glamorize their past. D-uh. You are in so many ways 'right on' but to do mutual good it's important to also show respect for the USA that was/has been. You do NOT need to be cloying. For decades the USA has been trying to fix it's problems. Unfortunately, as we actually have people romanticizing stuff like slavery(most people are not aware of indentured/mostly white slavery, of whom many never got free: hello, college debtors!) We are looking backwards.
I think what you are saying is easier said than done. In my state starting from kindergarten teachers are supposed to teach the children the pledge and lead the class daily in oledge. It is legally up to them whether to recite the pledge or bot. But who expects kindeegartners to be able to make an informed choice? The legislature. For the most part children obey their teachers, librarians, coaches, and orher responsible adult figures. Most other adults leave them alone. Eventually they meet up with a phishing police officer or some other adult they should resist. Intuitively we should cooperate with the police but all things considered that is a bad idea. For example my kids are free range. A couple weeks ago the police took them home for being free range. I need to give them the strength to say "No Thanks Officer" To be clear the people they are resisting are not bad people. They are just people doing their job and have forceful personalities.
I pledge allegiance to liberty and justice for all. Also, I'm sure Jesus is super cool with us putting "in god we trust" on money.😂🤦 You know, important stuff.🤔
I'm not sure how long this has been going on, but the idea of the "Christian Flag" and the "Pledge of Allegiance" created by Christians or Christianity-adjacent faiths promoting patriotism if not necessarily nationalism certainly seems to have contributed to it.
State-condoned religion and state-mandated religion is as old as humans. It is a constant struggle to separate them because greedy power-seekers understand religion is easily used as a tool to control and subjugate the masses.
Funny how electing a man like trump who is the opposite of all these important qualities, we the people would elect him to lead and represent us, America what is wrong? Did our parents not teach us these important things? I bet they did! What happened?
Why? Because he thoughtfully pointed out some less than perfect truths? Being critical doesn't equal hate. Your conclusion is shockingly childish and ill conceived. btw I'm a lifelong happy to be American but at this time I'm deeply ashamed of it.
Seek justice for the poor and marginalized, love mercy for all of Gods creation, walk humbly with your God. That’s what I wrote on my grandsons card. And I think I will write it on all cards going forward.
The first time I really understood there was something wrong with the idea of US "superiority", was when I was 16, and an exchange student to Colombia. A 12 year old Colombian boy was more well-versed on the aspects of Watergate, than I was. It had probably happened when I was about his age, but he was asking me questions, and I couldn't answer. It had been a failure on our part, but we obviously didn't want to dwell on the mistake. We can see where that got us. I joined the military and took the oath to defend Constitution and country. Will our current military respect the flag (nationalism) or the people, when the real test comes? Blind allegiance will not serve us well.
I watched all the watergate hearings in my late 20’s in the last months of pregnancy with my oldest son. It inspired me to go to law school and after practicing law for 20 years to spend 15 years helping parents by doing family mediation. I owe my career to a couple of bumbling burglars and a liar of a president. Oh, the irony.
So your ignorance means the US has a problem..😂 🤡
@@drjanitor3747 You accept what you know as truth until you understand someone else has a different viewpoint, which is also valid. If the US has a problem, it will not improve if we are both ignorant and apathetic. Think about who the Enemy was/is. Is it that group we really have problems with? Or, is it their leaders? Who says THEY are the enemy? Why do you believe the ones who say it? We still think we have a free and democratic country. It is a lovely illusion.
I used to have a tee shirt that said “QUESTION AUTHORITY” about 50 years ago. The thought was to think things through for yourself and don’t just say “okay.”
Under Trump, that shirt will be banned! So sad. 😢 🇺🇲
But should we really question authority?
@@steveneptun7580 there’s a difference between questioning and defying. First question whether the authority is asking for obedience to laws in line with the constitution, and if so, you’ve done your questioning and can be accountable for whichever decision you make. Erich Fromme wrote a book as Hitler came to power called “ Escape From Freedom” describing taking the easy path of letting someone else be the boss.
I had the same shirt!
@@libbycollins9349I was just joking by questioning what you said
Awesome Awesome Message Rev Ed!!!... Thanks God Bless 🕊️ Nmultis 🕊️
The Maple Leaf flag was officially adopted February 15, 1965. It was very controversial. Prime Minister Pearson (himself a World War I veteran) felt that the negative reaction to the Red Ensign flag during the Suez crisis (Egypt refused to accept Canada's participation in a U.N. peacekeeping force because we would "be on the side of Britain") signaled that Canada needed a flag that showed that we were a separate entity from Great Britain. He was right, but it was very hard for people who had lived their entire lives and fought two world wars under the Red Ensign to accept the change. In the end, it's a symbol, not something to be worshiped like an idol. “By their deeds you will know them."
Thanks for this. Be well!
When I started school in 1950, the first things we learned were "The Pledge Of Allegiance To The Flag" ( not the US Constitution, BUT to a piece of cloth ), "The Star Spangled Banner" ( a war song ) and the "Battle Hymn of the Republic" ( a song that merges religion with war ). That's why Conservatives are Conservatives. Maybe we should have learned "America The Beautiful" instead.
I had a friend who had a bumper sticker which read, "Question Authority." My response was, "Question Authority - Except Mine." I was taught critical thinking in school. Unfortunately, I had to teach my children those skills. And logic. Only a few have figured out that when I say this, I'm not just trying to get a laugh. I'm trying to get people to think and talk about what it means to question. ❤
I like that one
Yes.
Flags and symbols get co-opted all the time. The flag of St George no longer represents the best of England, many times it represents the worst of our sports teams supporters.
Politicians who lead with the flag often have no value to their manifesto.
Finally, we're putting the horse before the cart!
Much appreciated Rev
The SYMBOL is only as great as what it REPRESENTS. Just as I believe my faith is only as strong and real as what it guides and inspires me to think, believe, and do, in my words, my actions, my set of beliefs, and in how I treat other people (who are ALL my neighbors).
As one born during WW2 and reared in 1950s America it has seemed to me my parents understood devotion to country more personally, perhaps because it had cost them something of possess; a price which later generations have not had to pay.
When a large percentage of the population possesses such extreme wealth that. these super wealthy live a seperate sphere of reality that.... is when oppression to nation's populations begins. We now have theses factors that, American had't possesed in such a wide discrepancy.
Love your message!
Excellent video.
Thank you Rev Ed for your message about greatness! We need to hear that and act on it. At my advanced age, I can look back and see how I, along with most people around me, grew up in a society that encouraged material achievement. I was a decent enough person, but I didn’t spend my time thinking about creating a great life for myself and others that reflected the values you just talked about. I thought about improving my material welfare and thereby, my social status. How sad that is, because I think most Americans were and still are, thinking that way.
Believe the same... Look at today's society ... It's all about million and billionairs!! How can the rest of the nation achieve any level of respectwith this materalism, money and wealth worship dominating our beliefs??
I agree, it always makes me cringe a little when people seem to love the flag over people.
At this point,, I'd welcome people who love the flag over people who love a very specific politician over the flag or country.
Your talk today reminds me of an old rock song by Crosby Stills and Nash call teach your children well. The thing that I like in the song Teach Your Children Well to teach your parents well. I for one have learned a lot from my children about who I am and what I believe.
AMEN.
SO MOTE IT BE.
That song is on my playlist. I hear it everyday on my walk.
hey now... who you callin' old?
:)
Remember when the song 1st came out. Super strict conservative parents unafraid to iniate violence to win their parental control.
Yes, my siblings and I where just getting old enough to begin rebelling against their methods of parenting and the callous
style of their peers form of governance....Late 1960's.
Now with Tramp at the helm we will devolve civilly back, to those harsh and unfair standards of governance and civics....,groan!!
Yes!! “Will my behavior today harm another living thing today, namely a human?” If yes, do not ever do it. Ethics is just one rule: love your neighbors. One rule, not 10.
1980’s bumper sticker: “I ❤my country, but I fear my government!”
Reaganomics….. the trickle down that didn’t.
I am so thankful that I was born in America. As a woman, I am grateful that I do not live in Afghanistan or anywhere in the Middle East. Women are treated horribly in these Countries. The US is far from being perfect, but I would rather live here than anywhere else. I thank my ancestors for coming to America. Sometimes people don't know how good they have it until they visit a different Nation.
Seek justice for the poor and marginalized, love mercy for all of Gods creation, walk humbly with your God.
That’s what I wrote on my grandsons card. And I think I will write it on all cards going forward.
👍
Teach them real love
Amen!!!
Excellent message Rev. Excellent. a "flag" has to stand for something, not for blind submission.
Thank you so much Rev 💜 anti consumerism, service to your community and self care are forms of resistance as well please do not forget that. Also bringing on tyranny to my women's group so thanks for that too Padre
I love the idea of cheerful resistance, being ”green” for my grandchildren, pushing back against greed with generosity, against hate with love, going against pushing the poor down by lifting our voices on their behalf(I’m old, so no cussing), and in general being an ever present persistent face of cheerful in your face resistance.
@@libbycollins9349
Amen
You got me thinking! Every year I put together a vision board. I think it might be time for that vision board to expand past my immediate life and dwell totally upon what I want my country to be like. Might be an interesting thing to do as a group effort. Thanks for the words, Rev. As always they have me thinking and acting a bit better.
"Teach the children quietly
For some day sons and daughters
Will rise up and fight where we stood still"
Silent Running - Mike and the Mechanics
Peace and Greetings from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania U.S.A.
🙏
Yes it is Reverend felt the same way🗣💜✊🏻
Mercy, Justice, walk humbly with the Lord. And teaching our children well.
Teach them to resist, but also teach them discernment. We respect "the best" illusions, "the best" facades. "Not all that glitters is gold."
I would add asking adults to consciously accept and display these qualities so that there will be perfect examples and role models all around and then we will no less see as a result happiness, joy and gratitude everywhere! What a wonderful world!
Exactly. Shared to FB Public.
"Every era needs it's symbols to control it's people. Be it the stars and stripes or the hammer and sickle."
- Big Momma (Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns if the Patriots)
This old heart was moved to tears by the truth in your words. Thank you for reminding us. Bless your ministry!
That's exactly 💯 how I feel as an American right now Like I straight up want to ask Superman if he actually existed, What Does Truth, Justice, and the American Way, even mean Supes? Whatcha fighting for when we don't even live up to The Pledge of Allegiance core statements?
And where a high profile NFL QB like Colin K is run out of the league at his peak, because he led a movement of taking a Knee before the game So that police brutality might be more closely scrutinized
Or when many want prayer 🙏 brought to the classroom, but refuse to allow Free or discounted breakfast or lunch for the poorest in their classroom
Teach the children about the rebel Jesus Christ. His kingdom turns the human hierarchy on it's head. His kingdom come his will be done.
As an individual U.S. citizen I feel I must put the question ,
How do WE THE PEOPLE get past the hollow reverence of the mere symbols of OUR NATION ,
And back to an actual appreciation of the ideals upon which IT WAS FOUNDED,
When did our adoration of our iconography , supplant OUR STRIVING TO ACHIEVING that MORE PERFECT UNION !
And how do WE THE PEOPLE get back to investing in our great NATION's evolution toward our HIGH IDEALS ,
Instead our current trend selling off OUR ASSETS AND FUTURE to the highest bidder for the profit of
THE WEALTHIEST PEOPLE AND CORPORATIONS IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD !
And how do you , a Canadian see it so much clearer than WE THE PEOPLE ?
If more Americans learned about their own country’s history, instead of its mythology, it would help.
For example, many Americans argue that your civil war was about States rights, but as Ken Burns so eloquently puts it:
“I think what happens is that we build up over time the sense of an excuse about why it came,” Burns said. “If you read … South Carolina’s articles of secession in November - after [Abraham] Lincoln’s election of 1860 - they don’t mention states’ rights, they don’t mention nullification. They mention slavery over and over again.”
I totally agree with your view which makes a great deal of sense!
Very early on, I had a conservative friend who told me that the entire Resist movement, saying it was un-American.
So much for our Constitution!
Amen 🙏🏾
amen
🙏 amen
💕💕💕
This was beautiful! Please make it into a short or reel so that people who don’t follow you can see it. I’ll share the video but unfortunately few will invest the time to listen. 🙏🏾❤️
I will always consider kneeling during the anthem a form of prayer for our country.
Plenty of people don't take off their hats or get off their phones, either.
Had to look up the old flag. Overly imperialist, in my opinion. New flag is much better. Everyone likes leaves. Great stuff, Canada- keep up the good work!
I was always pledging to the ideals of America: Equality, Community & Freedom. Why did others pledge themselves to a flag, why did they take it so literally? Pretty sure I understood what I was saying by 8yo. 😢
Awesome message ❤❤❤❤ thanks!!!
The Canadian Red Ensign was replaced as the flag of Canada in 1965 by the current flag of Canada
Wonderful message!!
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ ❤
I’m a fan of ❤️🔥🥰
The one and only thing that have tried to teach my children is to ONLY believe the things that can be DEMONSTRATED to be TRUE.
There are as many ideologies as there are people, but only a fraction of those people can DEMONSTRATE their ideologies to be "FACTUAL" in REALITY, and BENEFICIAL to society.
I'm glad to see that some Christians are thinking about what's BENEFICIAL to humanity, even if you still have "faith" in something that CANNOT possibly exist in REALITY.👍
I apologize if my wording is offensive, but "REALITY" doesn't comport to our "beliefs". It just is what it is, whether you are comforted by it or not.
I love Rev Ed, and his philosophy on life, but I still can't except the "TRUTH" of this "god" he believes in, as demonstrated by reality.
If you can convince me otherwise, I'm ALWAYS open to the discussion. Thank you for you tolerance and and understanding.😌
Well the first thing I thought about is the hundreds of flags trump always surrounds himself when giving a speech somewhere. Since I have lived and worked in many countries I paid little attention to any flags other then their designs. They are kind of interesting.
I absolutely agree with Mr Sophie however I would remind you that when I was a kid in the 50s the flag and the anthems showed respect and Justice and a country that was kind and taught integrity unfortunately it is no longer
With all due respect, the fifties were not the golden years for everyone.
Racism, sexism, and targeting of so many different people was not only common, but legal.
I think it was the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King who said, “Injustice anywhere, is a threat to justice everywhere”.
Reality check- The 1950s were also a time of horrific strife in the American South. Jim Crow laws. lynchings and other forms of violence. The House Un-American Activities disgraceful hearings with results including the gruesome executions of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg and the ruined lives and careers of some of our finest. At any given time in our history there have always been challenges and injustices to deal with. It's the American tradition of protest and willingness to confront and bring justice where and when needed that shows integrity and we should continue to strive for these ideals.
I was in my teens when the Canadian flag changed. It was Lester Pearson's gov't, I believe, and Canada was approaching its Centennial. My father died 7 months before I was born, of injuries related to his WWII experience. He saw Bergen-belsen after the liberation. My step-father lost 2 fingers from his right hand and took a bullet in his right arm in France in WWII. He never spoke of it. The change in the flag upset him, and we argued about whether or not Viet Nam was worth it. We both agreed about Hitler and WWII and that fighting that was worth the cost but I didn't buy Viet Nam. It was a wild, tumultuous time, those years. I remember the war protests, Kent State, the assassinations. And this music: ruclips.net/video/zj8FlXGPcOQ/видео.htmlsi=XnoMS3r0vreeR0Ad
ALWAYS QUESTION AUTHORITY.
What makes you think that they have all the anawers?
They stilll deal in concepts instead of better ways.
Funny how when you turn off the propaganda, do a quiet time, get in the word, and for example from Thessalonians learn to increase in brotherly love, work on humility, meekness, a quiet life off the radar. And Bam, your message reaching out for God is greatly improved. How do we walk that extra mile that grabs a person by the heart ? Stand strong protect the weak.
I have said that we need to quit teaching children to pledge allegiance to A FLAG. We need to teach them to pledge allegiance the Constitution (if it is important to pledge allegiance at all):
I pledge allegiance to the CONSTITUTION of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it DEFINES, one Nation indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
I chose the version that was adopted in 1923 as the basis for the new pledge.
And while we are at it, let's teach the children what is ACTUALLY IN THE CONSTITUTION, and the HISTORY of the amendments.
What I find interesting are those you idolize the Flag are often seen wearing flag bathing suits and tee shirts, handkerchiefs in suit pockets, beach towels, inside Bibles. I was taught that use of the flag is disrespectful.
Empathy.
What gets me is that the people who are just "nationalistic" and supposedly have such "respect" for the flag, don't follow the rules for respecting the flag. The flag is never supposed to be used as clothing, used for any sort of advertising, touch the ground, be rained on or used when it's dark (unless there is a floodlight illuminating it at all times.) Yet, the idjuts who have the most flags are wearing flags (although some have Trump somehow substituted on them or advertising something), and dragging the flags on their vehicles (night and day, no matter what the weather). Their "respect" has nothing to do with love of country or understanding about the flag, but only their narrow view of the nationalism they want.
I have a friend who is a retired marine. He is often outraged by the mishandling of the US flag by those nationalists. He keeps a pile of photocopies of flag protocols/etiquette. Surprisingly, the nationalists get very upset with him when he gives them the information, as if it is too "woke" to actually care for the flag. But it shouldn't surprise any of us, because those same people think Jesus' message is "too woke."
Yes, we do indeed need to teach our people to love justice, inclusion and humanity. Chances are then they'd understand that as they properly respect the flag because it truly stands for something worth respecting.
idjuts Is right. But my grandmother used to say God looks after idjuts and children.
Spin*Control
Round and round you*go, where you*stop only the spin machine knows,
Right to Left, Center and back, keep on spinning until you*see only black,
Passing out brass rings and carrots on a stick, to expert suckers who are merely professional behind the screen licks,
Up and Down with fear you’ll hop, flip-pity-flop, frightened, shy rabbits on pogo sticks,
Spinning, Hurling, upside down, a roller coaster of amusement pressing us into our lazy boy seats, unable to Stand*Up through the wrenching, dizzy spin, while everyone in the lobby gives more money, to continue the ride,
Who’s in control, The*People, The Promoters, The Financial Brokers, or The Criminal, Carnival, Clown Slackers,
There’s only one way to*see, simply step off the merry -go- round, Stand*Up on your own, look around, take a deep breath of Fresh*Air, turn off the show that spins conflict and fear, open your mind and heart to the true reality, NOT the show, of death, destruction, hate and fear all spinning their webs to keep the seven legged spider hidden in it’s corner, while you’re wrapped and caught in the silky cocoon, comfortably misled by a puppet master pulling the strings, eager to suck the very marrow from your children's bones, and microwave their brain cells into obedient, depressed gray clones, happy-shiny, wannabe somebody their not, chatting aimlessly, from invisible cell to cell,
Round and round you go where they stop only the marketing machine knows, because you’re too damn confused, sick and lying face down in the swill, as the trough fills again and again, all you*see is more little piggies grabbing your*share, babes and sheeple everywhere,
While the Shepherd leads the lambs to slaughter, twisting and spinning the way of the wolf, whose wisdom and truth desires only to keep the flock roaming healthy, united and free, through the strength, unity and peaceful*change of knowing, caring and supporting the planet and its Family of Humanity . . .
L.O.V.E.*Rulz
Peace2*U
Pro💜Love
👣🕊👽
I stopped going to church when I was around 10, when my family moved from one part of the state to another and it stopped being a social obligation enforced on my mom by her parents. I still considered myself Christian until I was around 18. I never wanted to go searching for a new Church to go to because I knew that some churches taught love and some taught that obedience was love. I've since taken on... Its somewhat agnostic in the way it ends up, but I've come to realize that 'Agnostic' is not FULLY accurate, but is close enough. Because I hold onto the hope that if there is a God, that They are truly as loving and forgiving as I was taught, and that the fire and brimstone teaching was something we made up. But I don't worship. I don't go to church. I don't pray. I decided that I will follow my heart on what Christ says, and that if acts alone are not enough? If God demands worship as well as acts? Then They are not deserving of worship. If I am condemned to Hell for that belief? Then Hell is full of those of a like mind to me, and I will be in good company. Those that demand that morality can only be through fealty to their vision of Christ do not inspire me to follow His example.
If I could trust that churches would preach the way you preach? I don't know if I'd have returned to church. But I know I wouldn't hesitate the way I do now. It'd just be the normal hesitation of large social gatherings. Rather than the unknowing fear if I'm walking into a crowd that would ostracize me or my friends or my family if they learned the wrong details.
They say when great nations fall they glamorize their past. D-uh.
You are in so many ways 'right on' but to do mutual good it's important to also show respect for the USA that was/has been. You do NOT need to be cloying. For decades the USA has been trying to fix it's problems. Unfortunately, as we actually have people romanticizing stuff like slavery(most people are not aware of indentured/mostly white slavery, of whom many never got free: hello, college debtors!) We are looking backwards.
I think what you are saying is easier said than done.
In my state starting from kindergarten teachers are supposed to teach the children the pledge and lead the class daily in oledge. It is legally up to them whether to recite the pledge or bot. But who expects kindeegartners to be able to make an informed choice? The legislature.
For the most part children obey their teachers, librarians, coaches, and orher responsible adult figures. Most other adults leave them alone. Eventually they meet up with a phishing police officer or some other adult they should resist.
Intuitively we should cooperate with the police but all things considered that is a bad idea.
For example my kids are free range. A couple weeks ago the police took them home for being free range. I need to give them the strength to say "No Thanks Officer"
To be clear the people they are resisting are not bad people. They are just people doing their job and have forceful personalities.
I pledge allegiance to liberty and justice for all.
Also, I'm sure Jesus is super cool with us putting "in god we trust" on money.😂🤦 You know, important stuff.🤔
TEACH YOUR CHILDREN NOT TO SUPPORT OATH BREAKERS CAUSE LIEING IS WRONG !
Amen.
I'm not sure how long this has been going on, but the idea of the "Christian Flag" and the "Pledge of Allegiance" created by Christians or Christianity-adjacent faiths promoting patriotism if not necessarily nationalism certainly seems to have contributed to it.
State-condoned religion and state-mandated religion is as old as humans. It is a constant struggle to separate them because greedy power-seekers understand religion is easily used as a tool to control and subjugate the masses.
Love god love family love guns love our country live and let live respect
Funny how electing a man like trump who is the opposite of all these important qualities, we the people would elect him to lead and represent us, America what is wrong? Did our parents not teach us these important things? I bet they did! What happened?
They really aught to send the Russians home
Why? Have you really thought that to some conclusion?
You can't be pro-abortion and respect humanity. You are preaching resistance to yourself.
The Kingdom of God flag represents the only nation of people who obey Christ. It looks like my icon.
We get it you hate America.
Why? Because he thoughtfully pointed out some less than perfect truths? Being critical doesn't equal hate. Your conclusion is shockingly childish and ill conceived. btw I'm a lifelong happy to be American but at this time I'm deeply ashamed of it.
Right. Because Jesus taught his followers to resist the Romans, right? Oh wait, that was Judas.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Moon_Is_Down
🙏
Amen 🙏🏼
Seek justice for the poor and marginalized, love mercy for all of Gods creation, walk humbly with your God.
That’s what I wrote on my grandsons card. And I think I will write it on all cards going forward.