Don’t you just love the vivid palette of the summer season; the happy yellows of brilliant sunsets, the soothing turquoise of sun-kissed waters and of course, the satisfying greens of lush lawns? Let’s not forget the reds, whites and blues that literally parade in on Memorial Day and remain to set the stage for our July 4th festivities. To be sure, there’s a thread of Americana that weaves its way throughout these summer days and that got me thinking about this month’s column.
One need only take a short drive on a sunny afternoon to find American flags proudly displayed on homes and businesses throughout our Long Island neighborhoods. With more than 100,000 veterans living on Long Island it comes as no surprise. For those of us with family members who are veterans, in active service, or sadly, who have been lost in battle, Old Glory holds an even deeper significance.
I guess that’s why there is such a visceral reaction by some folks to “taking a knee” during the National Anthem. Now I realize that this is a touchy subject, but I thought it’d be worth exploring together, especially through the lens of our Catholic faith.
You see, every day at Catholic Charities, we open our doors to neighbors in difficulty. Some have suffered unfortunate circumstances while others have made and continue to make serious mistakes that directly contribute to their dire situations. They all find welcome with us. We meet each person where they are and accompany them as they navigate past the hurdles, the pain or shame. Even when loved ones have given up on them and friends have turned their backs, our staff and volunteers offer God’s merciful love to them on behalf of our whole Church. Why? It’s simple – our mission is the “go forth and live out the Gospel” instruction that we hear at the conclusion of every Mass.
Pope Francis summed it up saying, “Even if the life of a person has been a disaster, even if it is destroyed by vices, drugs or anything else - God is in this person's life. You can - you must - try to seek God in every human life.”
We believe that wholeheartedly and fueled by this love of Christ, we do all we can to bring forth the dignity of every person and help them rediscover the spark of the divine within them. Do we make mistakes? Of course! Do we do this perfectly? No way! Are we always successful? Not really. But we keep at it despite our shortcomings because, just like those we serve, we choose love and forgiveness. We choose to be united as followers of Jesus rather than to be alone, bitter and judgmental.
Unity is also what holds a country of individuals together. The United States, like any nation, has a checkered history with chapters that include everything from heartbreaking ugliness and prejudice to noble goodness and grace. Just like individuals, our nation has made mistakes that have contributed directly to our own strife. Yet, there have also been times of extraordinary leadership, compassion and concern, not just for our homeland, but for people around the world.
In that light, we might choose to accept our country with the same optimism and hope that our faith asks us to show our brothers and sisters – realistic enough to see flaws but open to the redemptive goodness that resides here as well. And I think that’s what patriotism is all about – being united with others who believe in overcoming our flaws and choosing love over hatred, hope over despair.
Yes, freedom means that someone – anyone – can take a knee during our anthem. Those who fought for that freedom know that better than anyone. Yet it still makes me sad. My hope and prayer during this American summer is that we stand united under our beautiful red, white and blue flag. Let’s put aside the vitriol, suspend judgment and commit to authentic albeit uncomfortable dialogue. That’s the path to mutual understanding and brighter tomorrows. And that’s how we’ll keep building up His kingdom here in the USA and beyond. God bless America!
