We enjoyed going over to the Amdahl Angus and Hereford Bull Sale this afternoon. These folks are fine longtime friends over south on Elk Creek. Good cattle and good neighbors. Tim started out the sale with a welcome and then invited all to stand and join in saying the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. He said many of us grew up saying it daily in the country schools that we attended...(I know that we did at Alkali). All stood and removed their hats and in one voice...I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

I found myself halfway through the pledge and I had had to stop as a lump in my throat stopped me... Hard to explain, except that I was amongst a crowd that was standing and joining in conviction and good conscience.

I shared this with my family this evening and Robin said that she had experienced the same. We say the Pledge often. In this day where patriotism in America seems to be waning and commitment to principle daily is becoming increasingly difficult to find, today's gathering of good folks gathered around good cattle was a blessing. 

Allegiance is only that when lived each day and not only on occasion. And devotion to the Republic...One Nation UNDER GOD.... Indivisible ...liberty and justice for all. As one reflects on the words perhaps the condition of our USA is more understood as so many have turned their back on not only the flag, but also the Republic and certainly God Almighty.