Say What Now?
I can see how The Star Spangled Banner may be appropriate in honoring our fallen heroes. But it goes way beyond that.
I would argue that it is time to quit playing this anthem before sporting events. Except it would be conceding defeat to our enemies.
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There are times that I cannot stand, grand-baby on lap, but I normally stand, hand over heart and sing. (actually I can’t sing, but I do anyway!) Yes, as I have done for 61, years, as my parents told me in respect for our great country! Now when family visits, they know I do and they also show respect. My older grandson told me they do it at home too, I believe him as that was how I raised my children!!
Has the Star Spangled Banner always been the US national anthem?
There was a beautiful scene in one of the last episodes of Downton Abbey, where the family had gathered around a radio in the parlor at the foot of the grand staircase to hear an address by the King concerning the onset of World War 2. They were all sitting around in their lovely day clothes on straight chairs. The radio crackled on, and you heard the first notes of the British national anthem. The face of the crusty old dowager grandmother (Maggie Smith) suddenly sprang to attention; she grasped her cane and stood up. The louche members of succeeding generations looked at her oddly for a moment, then got to their feet.
If anyone of you lives close by other neighbors who are likely to be watching football, open a window and sing along loudly!