ALLEGIANCE

As a citizen of our country I believe we must use our freedom wisely and behave honorably before all of our neighbors as well as accept and respect the rule of law and the authorities put in place to protect it, all for the sake of the common good. In the case of a particular law that we do not agree with then we do have the right and freedom to a peaceful protest with the operative word being 'peaceful'. Good governments should be concerned with the well being of their citizens. We as individuals should also be concerned for the well being our neighbors and fellow citizens. This concern may be manifested in a number of different ways. We can help the poor, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, or comfort the afflicted. I think most people would agree with the above statements but the place where some may be divided is on how to accomplish this. Some feel more Government programs such as welfare are necessary and some emphasize free market solutions with Government playing a lesser role. And so, the question of our civil obligations may lean towards ones of moral obligations. And we all see that social media, television and many other forms of entertainment are powerfully shaping our culture. Just as the natural environment of the Earth requires an ecological balance, so does the moral environment of a culture. Just as a polluted river has the potential to negatively impact fish, wildlife, recreation, and industry, a polluted culture can impair the moral ecology of a community. This seems to me uncontroversial. Thus, it is not surprising that in the United States some of the fiercest political divisions we have ever witnessed are occurring before our very eyes. We must now more than ever become very prudent and wise on how we address these volatile issues. I suggest starting with focusing more on what you support than what you oppose. And remember the Golden Rule in this case to extend tolerance and open-mindedness if we expect to receive it. I also urge us to be realistic on how much one can accomplish through the political process. I say yes, get out and VOTE responsibly, but I say a strong no to allowing your emotions to attack or demean others based on your political and perhaps otherwise belief system!

Allegiance

ALLE'GIANCE, noun [Latin alligo, of ad and ligo, to bind. See Liege and League.]

The tie or obligation of a subject to his Prince or government; the duty of fidelity to a king, government or state. Every native or citizen owes allegiance to the government under which he is born. This is called natural or implied allegiance which arises from the connection of a person with the society in which he is born, and his duty to be a faithful subject, independent of any express promise. Express allegiance is that obligation which proceeds from an express promise, or oath of fidelity.

Local or temporary allegiance is due from an alien to the government or state in which he resides.

Proverbs 3:1-3 My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart. If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying. Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart.

“Adorn yourself with truth, try to speak truth in all things; and do not support a lie, no matter who asks you. If you speak the truth and someone gets mad at you, don’t be upset, but take comfort in the words of the Lord: Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of truth, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven (Matt. 5:10).”

+ St. Gennadius of Constantinople, The Golden Chain, 26,2

WRESTLERS COMPETE AS INDIVIDUALS YET THE SPORT BUILDS CAMARADERIE LIKE NO OTHER