US Olympians: Perhaps a Lack of Patriotism?

Winning an Olympic medal is unquestionably a great accomplishment.  Not only is that medal a personal triumph for the athlete, but it's also felt as a triumph for their entire nation.

So many U.S. Olympic athletes have spoken of the thrill of standing on the podium as the American flag is raised and the Star Spangled Banner is played.  It is an honor and a privilege to represent one's country.

But I have found it troubling that several of our medal winning athletes have chosen not to place their hand over their heart as the American Flag is raised and the anthem played.

No, there is not a requirement to do so.  There is no law stating that this act must be performed.  It is more a symbol, a small act of patriotism.  It is a gesture to publicly show gratitude and love for one's country.  And regardless of one's personal political leanings, there is much to be grateful for as an American.

A person who puts their hand over their heart is not somehow better than others.  It isn't a political statement.  It doesn't cost anything to do, nor does it require much effort on the part of the individual doing it.

It is simply a small gesture of respect.  It is a quiet statement that says, "I will do a little more than just stand here."

If a person is so fortunate as to stand in the presence of US Military personnel as the flag is raised and the anthem played, that person will see how every single soldier will snap to attention and salute with great pride.  There will be no question as to their love of country.  They often pay a very high price for the freedoms we seem to, at times, take for granted.  And they do so because they love America and count it a privilege to show it.

I would love to see our athletes, who are so fortunate to even have the ability to compete, show such love of country and patriotism.  The hand over the heart is a small and simple gesture.  It isn't asking a lot for it to be done.  But it means a lot when it is done.  And both our great country and the freedoms we are blessed with certainly warrant at least this small gesture.