My mind continues to try and cope with the last year. I know many of you were productive in Elsewhere. I read article upon article written by women who told stories about personal self-growth in one or more areas of their lives. These women were able to involve themselves in projects and new hobbies. They redid a room or their entire home! They tackled the art of disciplining themselves to reach their desired goals. They grew an indoor garden, bought a Peloton bike, and hit the road indoors. They sorted through their closets and gave clothes and accessories away, they read specific books, listened to educational podcasts and documentaries, and one of my friend’s friends built an outdoor greenhouse!

Reflecting on these stories, I am reminded of the foundational principles upon which our nation was founded, and how the Pledge of Allegiance continues to represent our shared values. The pledge, first found in the words of Francis Bellamy and published in the Youth’s Companion magazine, draws inspiration from the ideals set forth in the Constitution. When we pledge allegiance, we affirm our commitment to a republic founded on liberty and justice for all. The Army has played a significant role in shaping patriotic traditions, including the use of the salute during ceremonies. Originally, the pledge was recited with a military salute, which was later replaced by the hand-over-heart gesture; those wearing a non religious headdress are instructed to remove it and hold it at the left shoulder. Congress formally amended the pledge in July 1954 to include the words “under God,” with President Eisenhower signing the legislation, and further legal and judicial actions regarding the pledge have taken place in months like July and December. The pledge’s evolution and meaning have been discussed in various forums, including a 2002 letter by Bellamy’s great-granddaughter published in the New York Times, which provided insight into its modifications. The words “liberty and justice for all” represent the nation’s highest ideals and ongoing aspirations.

The Pledge

The Pledge of Allegiance stands as a cherished tradition woven into the very fabric of American life. For generations, Americans have paused—hand over heart, eyes on the flag—to recite words that echo the nation’s founding ideals: “one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” This simple yet profound pledge is more than a daily ritual in schools or at public gatherings; it is a living testament to the principles that have shaped American history since the days of the Revolutionary War.

The origins of the pledge trace back to 1892, when Francis Bellamy, a Baptist minister and passionate advocate for unity, penned the original words for a patriotic celebration. Bellamy’s vision was to inspire a sense of national pride and shared purpose, especially among the youth. The phrase “one nation, indivisible” was a direct call to overcome the divisions that had threatened the country’s unity, reminding citizens that America’s strength lies in standing together.

Over time, the pledge evolved to reflect the changing spirit of the nation. In 1954, at the height of the Cold War, President Dwight D. Eisenhower supported the addition of the words “under God,” distinguishing America’s spiritual heritage from the atheistic ideologies of communist regimes. This change underscored the country’s commitment to freedom—not just of government, but of conscience and belief. Today, the pledge is often recited while standing, right hand over the heart, sometimes accompanied by the national anthem, reinforcing the deep connection between American symbols and values.

The Pledge of Allegiance has also played a pivotal role in the ongoing struggle for social justice and civil rights. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. invoked its promise of “liberty and justice for all” as a rallying cry in the fight for equality and dignity. The Supreme Court, recognizing the importance of individual freedoms, ruled that no student can be compelled to recite the pledge, affirming the right to remain silent as a fundamental aspect of American democracy.

Throughout American history, from the Declaration of Independence to the present day, the pledge has served as both a reflection of the nation’s ideals and a challenge to live up to them. It calls on every citizen—regardless of background, belief, or circumstance—to engage in the ongoing work of building a more perfect union. Whether recited in schools, at military ceremonies, or during moments of national reflection, the pledge endures as a symbol of unity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of America.

As we face new challenges and strive to create a society where liberty and justice truly belong to all, the Pledge of Allegiance remains at the forefront of our national consciousness. It is a reminder of our shared history, our collective dreams, and the unbreakable bond that unites us as Americans. In standing together and reaffirming our allegiance, we honor not only the past, but also the promise of a brighter, more just future for every citizen.

Negative Thoughts and Feelings

In comparison, I must confess I was unable to nourish my curious mind with gusto. I went through the motions because my thoughts were held captive by the negative things going on in a society of woke and cancel culture. To sum it up, the last year I have felt like a displaced person living among the mad. I shake my head in disbelief even though I’m very aware of their game plan. Yet, the reality is that these challenges—including the persistent impact of racism—reflect deeper issues within the human condition that we must acknowledge and address.

Therefore, I went through the motions of self-growth with little enthusiasm because the fact that my American brothers and sisters would turn on their culture and their fellow Americans in such a hostile way left me mortified. I fear that if we do not confront these issues, we may fail to uphold the ideals and values that define our nation.

Negative into Positive

I believe that negative happenings in a woman’s life can have positive outcomes. We fall down, we lick our wounds and question and try and process ‘why’ this occurred. Then we make a shift, pick ourselves up, and feel reinvigorated and stronger. Achieving this transformation is a true measure of personal success in the face of adversity. Many women miss the last step, they understand what is making them uneasy or unhappy, but they can’t shift! My advice is to shift, darling, for your benefit.

And, herein lies my dilemma…

What do you do when the problem is so vast you are incapable of shifting?

When I look back on the last year, I did stretch myself to grow. But as I mentioned, not with my normal enthusiasm. Every day I felt weighed down by what was taking place in my beloved America. I couldn’t and can’t toss these feelings away. I can’t pretend when before my eyes I am witnessing a calamity.

My down-and-out feeling comes from witnessing man’s inhumanity to his fellow man and to his country. This is surreal. Yes, I know there were World Wars, but fortunately, I did not live through any. Yes, I have listened to people make horrible comments and watched them commit horrible deeds against one another but never in such masses as they encroach today across every state of my beautiful America! Yet, throughout history, many Americans have been involved in efforts to address these challenges and bring about positive change.

I am Not Afraid

I have always believed in the goodness and sincerity of 99% of people, but now, I will pivot and be on my guard. I believed in always taking the high road without a care but now I will be careful in how I handle my dealings with another person(s.)

I am not afraid to take a stand when I believe strongly. I have taken strong stands on many issues alone when it felt right. What I learned this past year is to be wise to the 1% whose intent is to harm and take my stand before they do damage.

What I Will Do to Feel Productive and Satisfied

I asked myself what can I do to feel positive and productive through these difficult times in Elsewhere. My answer is…I will give back and “woke up” others with my culture before they are indoctrinated by cancel culture.

I will preach to the younger generation (that includes my children and grandchildren) and indoctrinate them to stand up with pride for their country. I will talk to people with no fear. And I will talk to people I know or just meet who are naive to what is taking place in Elsewhere. I will take the opportunity to tell true stories of a positive America and compare her to countries where populations are suffering. I will send out gifts, such as books that tell stories of my country along with George Orwell’s book, 1984, so they can read about two ways of government. I will write my stories and I will join groups that preach, “With liberty and justice for all.” In these challenging times, it is more important than ever that we remain united, standing together to uphold our shared values. Won’t you join me?

As always, I encourage you to comment your personal thoughts and feelings at the bottom of this musing. I want to hear from you. 

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