(Poem 163 for 2024 – I am writing a poem a day)

@Home Studio – 163^rd poem of the year (See below for poem in easier to read format)

I’m not much for flying flags of any kind.
Raised a conscientious objector
in a niche religion in the Bible Belt South, I
was taught my allegiance belonged only to
God. No pledges to countries, states, or other
designations were acceptable, and certainly no        
banners representing such entities need adorn
my person, home or belongings. Yet, I’ve always
felt a swell of emotion when the National Anthem
is sung, people covering their hearts in reverence.
In recent years, I’ve learned of the Pan-African flag
that many in the black communities are adopting
to show allegiance to their roots, and the Juneteenth
flag representing when more Americans than ever
were finally rescued from enslavement. I live in Texas,
where many seem more loyal to the state flag than any
other, a people of the lone star who would once again
be fine with setting up their own country if it means
liberals stop messing in their business. I was an
adult when I realized the United States flag is an
ever-changing configuration of stars as states
are added to the union. When Flag Day was
made a federal holiday, there were only 13.
This country has grown to 50, and will
probably expand more in my lifetime.