flag to remind

Is your flag flying today?

Six years ago, when tragedy jolted us all, many tried to figure out what we could do. Some gave blood - do you remember the lines of donors? Many of us prayed. Most of us tried to do something to remind us of who we are, where we are, and what we have. Those moments continue to impact our nation today.

In the weeks after the Sept. 11th attacks, nearly every home in our Seattle neighborhood had a flag on display. As time passed, people started putting their flags away, not because they didn't love their country or flag, but they were just moving on from the season of remembrance. We were one of those families, not of malicious or political intent, but we just sort of moved back into "special day" flag flying.

My brother, who is part of the US military, told me I should fly that flag at all times. He says it reminds us of who we are, where we are, and what we have - every time we see it waving in the breeze we can remember to live as if we are grateful. He says it reminds us of those who have served, still serve, and will serve our country. I didn't disagree with him, but (as lame as it might sound), I didn't have a light on our flag, and didn't want to forget it out in the dark, so I just put it out on holidays.

I have friends here temporarily, stationed on a project with the Australian Air Force. In each of their homes hangs an Australian flag. They also have a flag sticker on their vehicle windows. Even if you didn't know them, you would immediately see those flags. Quite possibly, you'd ask them questions. I loved that they were comfotable in drawing out those questions, even engaging in conversations with people, to claim their own citizenship with a beautiful mix of pride and humility.

Over time, I started thinking that I don't know many Americans with flags in their foyers, tailgate windows, etc. Perhaps it's because most of us live where flags fly in public places everywhere. Perhaps it's because we fear tension with neighbors over a perceived (intentional or not) political statement. Perhaps, as cynics suggest, we tend to use a flag as a representation of our emotion - celebrating with gusto, but forgetting quickly.

My brother left yesterday. His wife and children, my parents and brother, our family, and all of his friends will not see him for quite a while. He has left for military duty in Iraq.

When I spoke with him this weekend, I was reminded of how I am much more interested in my own comfort and stability than he seems to be. Honestly, I don't understand his strong desire to go and serve in a dangerous and difficult place, especially while I know how deeply he cares for those here, and how much they need him. He is certain that this deployment is where he is meant to be at this time. His wife, similarly, wants him to go and do the work ahead. (This from a happily married couple who absolutely want to be with each other!) Certainly, she wants him safely home, but she is excited and convinced that he is headed into purposeful work.

I asked him if he was nervous about going over there; I wondered if he worried about his safety or purpose. My brother, without missing a beat, answered, "Yeah. I am nervous. I hate flying over water, and that Atlantic Ocean is going to be a hard flight."

Um, I meant, are you nervous about being in a war zone? Again? On your second trip?!?!

His answer was just as quick, but absolutely sincere: "No. I will be safe, and I want to go. It's a phenomenal experience to do this. It's amazing to go, to get to contribute and experience it for yourself, instead of just taking what people tell you. " And then this: "I volunteered to go. This is what I want to do."

Wow. I want to have his strength and courage, but I don't. I told him I'll be nervous for him, and I'll be eager to see him safely back home with his wife and kids. In the meantime, I'll be praying. I'll also be flying my flag. It will remind me and everyone who passes or enters my home of my brother - and others like him. It will us of the many people who have fallen while living and defending what we have. Its wave will remind me to pray, both with gratitude and hope. It will remind me that many men and women have gone, are gone, and will go far away from the cities, homes, and country where the US flags fly freely.

I don't know the answer to why our flag went into "sometimes" use, but I do know I want to see it every day and remember.