Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Symbolism

Earlier today I was catching up on reading some of my favorite blogs--wanted to know what friends, profs, associates, and other bloggers were up to. And quite frankly I'm just trying to fill the time before I head off to my doctor's appointment, to figure out why my throat is getting worse and not better.

On one blog I read there was a discussion on the American flag and peace symbols, from a milspouse's POV. Ever since I read that post I've been cogitating on what the 2 ladies had to say and their thoughts behind their feelings.

Symbolism is something that we all hold dear. We all have things that symbolize something. In the Peanuts comic strip Linus' blue blanket symbolized security. For Christians, a cross necklace, or cross wall hanging symbolizes our salvation.

There are other forms of symbolism as well. I live in the South, and around here there are still many people that fly the Confederate flag. The Confederate flag can symbolize different things to different people. Some people see it as symbolizing our heritage--the strides we have made as a country. Other people see it as a symbol of oppression and slavery. The same flag, symbolizing totally different things.

The idea of symbolism makes me wonder, what symbolism am I portraying to other people when I fly my flag, or wear earring with peace signs. I love America, and I'm a huge supporter of our military--I want to do all I can to serve those that serve our country and that have said they are willing to make whatever sacrifice to keep America free and safe. That is what I want to portray, but is that the message that is coming across.

Some people see peace signs and they think about anti-war protests and those people that are anti-military. Some people see a flag and they wonder if the person flying it is genuine. Flags are a dime a dozen these days and not everyone that flies them is doing it out of a true, patriotic heart.

What are your thoughts on symbolism, and what some symbols that are important to you?

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