Opinion: It’s Simple, Isn’t It? If You Don’t Stand for the National Anthem, Then Don’t Play

This isn't rocket science. If you can't stand for three minutes to honor our nation, our flag and the brave men and women who fought and died to protect it then you should have to watch the game from the confines for your million dollar home.

To say that we are divided as a nation right now is just seems so redundant. It's obvious. It's never been so trendy to bash the president. To be fair, President Trump doesn't make it too difficult.

Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick shocked the nation last season when he started to kneel during the national anthem to protest the oppression of African Americans. Since then many players have joined him.

I guess out of all of the issues our nation is facing our president found this one needed fixing via Twitter.

Trump tweeted on Saturday, Sept 23: 

"If a player wants the privilege of making millions of dollars in the NFL, or other leagues, he or she should not be allowed to disrespect our Great American Flag (or Country) and should stand for the National Anthem. If not, YOU'RE FIRED. Find something else to do!"

This rallied more players to kneel in protest. Some keeled, some did not even leave the locker room. Only one player from the Steelers walked on the field for the national anthem. It's hard to tell if players are even protesting for oppression or if their kneeling to spite our president. I'm not sure what result their going for anymore. Who in their right mind is unaware that racism and bigotry exists in this country?

I understand the players have the right to protest and express themselves. However, with all of the media outlets and with the NFL's fan base, why choose our nation's national anthem to make your point.

Arnold Smith, an army veteran from Middletown who served in Afghanistan says "I fought their freedom. I fought for their right to protest." It's hard to argue with someone who's been through the thick of it and knows how important our freedoms are. So much so that he risked his own life to defend it.

I respect Arnold's opinion and his words. I don't think it would be hard to show my respect by removing my hat, and standing at our flag for three minutes before a game. This of course is my opinion. I'd love to hear your thoughts.