When I heard about Mr. Kaepernick’s actions, my emotions took over and that was a natural impulse. But as I was able to process the issue, I missed the whole point of America and just in case many of you did as well, here is my take:
The promise of America (not reality or historical data) is that each one of us has a voice and if there are any grievances, you have a right to speak, stand, sit or simply make a symbolic gesture to metaphorically say, “hey this is not right, and we need to start a dialogue.”
Let’s say that America is represented by everyone in the football stadium, including the players, coaches-everyone!
Everyone is equal, and each person has a right to feel comfortable and empowered to offer suggestions of improvement or necessary dialogue or actions for the sake of problem solving and healing.
Many of us get clouded of the incidentals:
Did he do this on the company “dime?”
Did he take advantage of his platform?
Is he against patriotism?
Do I agree or disagree?
These are all points that can be debated, but not as important as the idea that Mr. Kaepernick followed his conscience and showed leadership-And he did it peacefully!
I don’t know about you, but if we had a school full of “Mr. Kaepernicks,” that school would help fill our communities with prosperity, productivity, peace and joy!
