"We live in a nation of freedom. Participation in the Pledge is voluntary. Those who wish to participate may stand. All others may remain seated."

Every single day. Every single day. There is no escape.

I choose to remain seated. For one thing, I've already pledged my allegience to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands. My word is good, and I don't intend to go back on my word. Beyond that, I've already pledged it over and over. At some point it becomes akin to a married couple that "renews their vows" at every anniversary. Enough is enough.

Secondly, "under God" has gotten under my skin. I am a Christian, and I believe in God, but I also believe in the seperation of church and state, and am uncomfortable with how much that is being eroded.

Finally, in case there are any students in my classes that only stand because everyone else does, I want to be an example of the fact that you really don't have to. In some classes, that isn't even an issue. Jaded groups of youngsters that don't even stop chattering amongst themselves, much less stand and recite. In others, the earnestness can be cut with a knife. I have no problem with people choosing to say the pledge, but I think it is good for the very young to be reminded that dissenting opinions are ok.

And now I'm being verbose.