Quote Originally Posted by Thorne View Post
Actually it's to both. "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands...."

And I agree, it is a symbol. An effigy. It's not a holy relic, it's a piece of cloth. It can have many meanings to many different people. To a soldier in battle it may be a sign of pride and courage. To a frightened tourist overseas it can be a sign of safety and acceptance. To an enemy soldier it is a sign of evil and hatred. But regardless, it is still just a piece of cloth, and I do not owe it any allegiance. To the nation, yes. To the leaders, perhaps, if they have earned it. (Not so much, lately.) But to the flag? Sorry, no.

But you just admitted the flag is a symbol (and not a holy symbol). A symbol of safety and acceptance. A symbol of pride and courage. A symbol (to the enemy) of evil and hatred. But you do not say what it symbolizes to you. What does it symbolize that generates such apathy?