Let a new flag represent new commitment

It is time to strike the Confederate battle flag and to retire the Stars and Bars to its place in United States history.

It is a symbol that is soaked in the blood, pain and suffering of generations of Americans. I suggest that we dip that flag in the melting pot of many colors and let it be reborn to represent the vast diversity and untapped potential of this country.

The flag of the new rebellion should now be used to represent a confederation of all people of every race and creed boldly joined together to make this country a better place for all, fairly and equally.

Let it stand for an America that welcomes diversity, that welcomes differences of opinion and debate, that can disagree without being disagreeable.

Let it herald in an America that can compromise. Let it stand for forgiveness, healing and love. Let it stand for childlike wonder and the best interests of children of all ages.

Let it challenge us to bring out our best for the betterment of all. Let it unleash the competitive spirit that makes this country great and let it encourage people to put forth their best effort simply because it is the right thing to do.

Use it to rally against the forces of intolerance, ignorance, dogma, divisive political rhetoric, war mongering, special interests and the senseless violence that seems to be everywhere.

Solving the issues that confront our country will require more than simply replacing a tired old flag from a misguided time. There are no easy answers to the issues that face this country. But our resources are vast, and there is no limit to what we can do as a people once we set our mind to solving the problem.

David Clark

Libertyville