Politics Doesn't Belong in Sports But Patriotism Does

Sports has always been a diversion transcending politics. It has brought people together, allowing them to focus on rest and relaxation, spend time with friends and family, or forget what else is going on in their lives or even the world for a few hours. Sports have always been patriotic; teams play the National Anthem before games, along with the occasional unfurling of the American flag on a field. For patriotic holidays, there is additional recognition through pre-game ceremonies, uniform changes, or breaks during the game. Following the attacks on 9/11, "God Bless America" was sung at many sporting events. In fact, the New York Yankees continue to play the song during the 7th inning stretch at home games. Patriotism, nonetheless, is slowly becoming political, and therefore, sports are becoming political. However, these acts are not symbols of politics, but of patriotism.

Patriotism and politics are two separate things. It is possible to be patriotic without being political, just as it is possible to be political and still be patriotic. Patriotism is the recognition and support of a person's country of birth, citizenship, or residence, while politics is the views and beliefs of different parties or individuals on certain issues.

The last few years have seen these distinguishments blurred. Many individuals seem to believe that to be patriotic is synonymous with being political. Thus, simply because someone is standing in honor of the National Anthem or saluting a flag implies they espouse to certain political views and beliefs. Just this week, a sports writer claimed the unfurling of an American flag at a baseball game was a political statement which did not belong in sports.

Every nation has moments in its history that its citizens would like to forget, but it is part of who that nation is. Individuals have periods in their life they would like to forget, but for better or worse, those moments make them into the person they become. The same is true with nations. Just because there was a certain event or time period in a nation's history that was not its' finest moment, does not mean that for the rest of eternity, the citizens should be repulsed at the notion of respecting and honoring the nation.

Simply standing for the National Anthem or saluting the American flag does not mean that that individual condones everything in our nation's history, every decision ever made by a president, or every law passed by Congress, rather it is a sign of respect. In fact, the United States Code actually requires each and every individual to stand at attention when the flag is being presented. (4 U.S.C. § 9.)

Sports are a time when people from all backgrounds and walks can come together to root for (or against) a certain team. It is not about democrats versus republicans, conservative versus liberal, black versus white, wealthy versus poor, or any other numerous political and social divides. It is about the enjoyment of watching players compete in a sport they love and for a team whose name they wear on their jersey.

Sports rising above politics is also exhibited in the purchase and ownership of a sports team. Currently, the Florida Marlins franchise is up for sale. There are reported at present two main potential buyers or partnerships. One such buyer is Tagg Romney. The other partnership is Jeb Bush and Derek Jeter.

This is a prime example of sports going beyond party lines and politics. Simply put, ownership of a franchise is a big deal! For one, it costs a lot of money to purchase a professional sports team. Furthermore, the owner(s) have great influence in how the franchise operates, the end goals, and the type of players they draw.

For example, George Steinbrenner, the late owner of the New York Yankees, was famous for his desire to win and draw the best players possible. He would do whatever in took to win. During the first twenty-three years of owning the Yankees, he hired and fired twenty-one managers, including Billy Martin five times. Steinbrenner also was well-known for specific requirements regarding appearances—ball players could not have any facial hair except for a mustache, and the length of their hair could be no longer than their shirt collar. However, above all was Steinbrenner's demand for excellence. Anything less than winning the Worlds Series was considered a failure. As owner, he set the tone for the organization from top to bottom. While playing in New York is demanding, ball players want to play for the Yankees because of the high standards expected. This tradition and mentality continues even today under the ownership of his immediate family.

Derek Jeter's political affiliations are not well known; he has always kept his personal life private. He did tell President George W. Bush to throw a strike and not bounce the ball when President Bush threw out the opening pitch during the 2001 World Series at Yankee Stadium. However, Jeter has also interviewed President Barak Obama for his website, The Player's Tribune.

Tagg Romney is the son of Mitt Romney. Mitt was the 2012 Republican presidential candidate. He was also a republican governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Of course Jeb Bush is the son of the 41st president of the United States, George H.W. Bush, and brother of the 43rd president, George W. Bush. He himself was a republican governor of the state of Florida. Baseball ownership does run in the family as George W. was at one time a partner owner of the Texas Rangers.

However, none of the political background of these potential buyers really matters when it comes to the ownership of the Florida Marlins because ownership of a team goes beyond politics. What matters is that they all obviously love baseball. Jeter, having played his entire career with the Yankees, will bring the drive and commitment of always winning to the table. (On a personal level, it would be strange to see Jeter affiliated with any team other than the Yankees.) Each potential buyer is a patriotic American who loves baseball.

The fans who come to sporting games, come to hang out with friends, relax, enjoy watching their team play. They do not come for politics. I believe though it is safe to say that the overwhelming majority of spectators are patriotic Americans.

Baseball in a way is as representative of America as the American Flag or the National Anthem. The sport is often referred to as America's Pastime. Baseball, in my opinion, is as American as apple pie, hamburgers, and fireworks.

Many might argue football is more American. After all we are the only country in the world to play football the way we do. What other countries call "football," we call soccer.

Regardless of the sport though, sports in general is part of American culture. Often the team a person roots for is because of who their dad or mom or grandparent or uncle or some other family member supports. For some, it is based on the region they live. Whatever the reason, sports is part of our heritage just like the American flag or National Anthem.

While each and every player does have a Constitutional right to express his political beliefs publicly, those beliefs do not belong on the field while the player is representing his team and at times his country. It is not okay to kneel or sit down while the National Anthem is played. Politics ought to be left in the locker room, while patriotism is embraced on the field. The American Flag must continue to be unfurled on baseball fields. This is America, land of the free, home of the brave. Patriotism is always in season and should be on display in every stadium and ballpark across this great nation.

Happy Independence Day but NOT Happy 4th of July

I know I'm on the late side with a 4th of July post, but I couldn't let the holiday, my favorite of the year, pass without some recognition. 

I recently saw an article titled something along the lines of why the 4th of July should not be celebrated. Obviously, the title intrigued me so I read it. The author distinguished how with all but one holiday, we say the name of the holiday we are celebrating (i.e. Christmas, Thanksgiving, Memorial Day), not the date. He pointed out though how Americans have become lax in recognizing what we are truly celebrating by referring to this most special holiday by its date only, the 4th of July. Rather, it should be called by its proper name, Independence Day, as a reminder of what we are celebrating. He made an excellent point which caused me much thought and consideration. 

When Memorial Day or Veterans Day comes each year, I always see posts and articles explaining the differences between the two holidays, as well as reminding people what each holiday is actually about. I see the most reminders with Memorial Day that it is not just about picnics and barbecues, but about recognizing the lives sacrificed for our nation. In some ways, I think the same thing has happened with our most patriotic of all holidays, Independence Day. 

We use the phrases 4th of July and Independence Day interchangeable and everyone knows we are referring to the same monumental event, our declaration of independence from Great Britain. Yet even when we use the proper title of Independence Day, I fear just as with Memorial Day, we have forgotten the real meaning of what Independence Day is all about. Sure we know it's a rememberence of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and of course we follow John Adams' admonishment to celebrate it with fireworks and festivities. But how many individuals take the time to read the historic document sharing the same title or ponder the possible peril these men we now call our Founding Fathers put themselves in through their actions. 

240 years ago, when 56 men penned their name on a piece of parchment, they were in reality signed their possible death warrant for treason. These men were willing to stand up against the greatest, strongest, most powerful nation on earth at that time. They were principled, moral men who understood the great injustices being committed by a tyrannical government. They didn't just roll over to let someone fight the battle another day, they didn't just be silent because it would have been politically incorrect to speak up, they didn't just comply with the king's edicts because it would have caused too much discontent among one another to do otherwise. No, they were willing to take a stand, knowing full well the reprercussions their actions would and could have, both for good and bad. We, with a small, raggle taggle of a army, stood up against the most powerful nation and fought for what we knew was right. We proclaimed for all the world and succeeding generations to hear that there are certain unalienable rights given to man by his Creator, that government derives its power from the people, and when a government seeks to deprive these people of their God-given rights, it is the right of the people to alter the government. These words penned that hot July, 240 years ago, are just as applicable today as they were then. 

I hear people talk about how discouraged the way our country and society is going; about the absence of courageous, God-fearing leaders; and the desire to see how our country as it once was. Yet, a short engagement of conversation will often reveal a lack of understanding events surrounding the founding of our nation, a lack of knowledge of our founding documents, and/or a lack of knowing what our Founding Fathers' beliefs and accomplishments. To be able to constitute change, there must be a comprehension of the past. 

We need to remember the true meaning of Independence Day, what those men so long ago were fighting for and standing up against, the sacrifices they were willing to suffer so that they and their families could live in a nation that recognized God-given, inalienable rights. We still live in the greatest nation on earth. When asked what type of government we have, John Adams replied, "A republic if you can keep it." It is not being kept very well currently, yet remembering what Independence Day truly is about will cause the republic to live another day. 

Long may Old Glory wave while Lady Liberty stands watch. Happy Independence Day!

Independence Day

As the 4th of July rolls around again, I am excited but also filled with sadness this year. It has always been my favorite holiday. I love the music, the patriotism, and especially the fireworks.  It is also a time to reflect on our nation's founding and history. This is what causes me sorrow, to see how far our country has digressed since 1776. 

Over the years, Americans have been known to have a backbone, to be independent, and to stand up to tyranny. At times, we are referred to as the world's police force. I do not support the level of involvement we have in foreign affairs. However, the underlying philosophy of why we become involved in foreign affairs indicative of our culture, that we hate to see humans suffering or repressed. We are a country of liberty and freedom.  We do not want dictators that have the potential for world dominance. When we have been attacked ourself, our resolve for freedom and justice has been awaken. 

Our Founding Fathers desired to not live under an oppressive power that restricted God given rights and freedoms. They designed a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. The Constitution begins with the words, "We the People." It is not a government of elected officials, appointments, individuals, or special interests group.  America has been a melting pot, opening our doors to all with welcoming arms. 

With recent events, I feel for the first time, it is no longer as popular to be patriotic or celebrate what our country stands for. This saddens me. Despite all our problems, I have always had the belief that we are still the greatest nation in the world. But now I wonder. It seems as if anyone who is bothered or offended by something can remove that offensive item or policy if they just speak up. We have become a hypersensitive culture. This is wrong. It is impossible to appease and please every single person. Someone will always react to something. 

Our past leaders and Founding Fathers were men and women of integrity, honor, and they had a back bone. They stood up for what they believed was right and did not cave to others, no matter what the cost. They are the reason why we are the nation we are today. Those who do not know or understand history are likely to repeat it. 

So this Fourth of July, I will still proudly show my patriotism because I still believe somewhere, there is something left of the principles and freedoms our country was founded upon. I cannot and will not believe that the courage our Founding Fathers displayed is completely gone. I pray and hope for better days to come. With all its flaws, I still love my country. I am a proud American. Let us never forget the sacrifices of those who have gone before us. 

Independence Day

235 years ago today, 56 men signed their "death warrant" or what we commonly refer to it as -- The Declaration of Independence. These men were willing to sacrifice everything, even their life for freedom and independence of them, their families, and future generations. Today, the men and women of the United States Armed Forces continue to make that sacrifice. It is so easy to get caught up in the festivities that we forget the really meaning of the day. America was built by people who loved and honored God, yet were independent enough to stand up for what is right.

Following the signing of the Declaration of Independence, John Adams said,

“I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance; it ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

So enjoy the day, celebrate what America is about, spend time with friends and family, watch tonight as the skies across our great country are lit up by fireworks and the air filled with bands playing. Just don't forget and lose sight of what we are celebrating.

And if you see a soldier or airman or sailor or Marine, thank them. They are the reason we can still celebrate.

"America-Why I love her" -- John Wayne

Who better then the "Duke" to tell about America