"The Red, White and Blue," "Stars and Stripes," and "Old Glory," are just a few names she has. If you haven't figured it out by now, we're talking about the American Flag. This flag, that has flown through war, terrorist attacks, storms, and sunshine, too often is ignored. Many have forgotten its meaning. Many have forgotten its significance. Many have forgotten to remove their hats. To respect it. It doesn't matter if you were born here or an immigrant, this flag represents home. This flag does not represent the government that you may or may not agree with, nor the president you do or don't support. This flag doesn't fly to offend any races and it doesn't fly for any particular religion.

#ThisFlag represents the land.

The wide open fields on the plains, the snowy tops of the Rocky Mountains, the lush valleys, the sandy coasts, and even the Arizonan desert.

#ThisFlag represents freedom.

Some may still not agree with this statement, and if they don't, well, they can leave. You have that choice. The Constitution guarantees it. The freedom to choose where you want to live. The freedom to travel abroad without hassle. The freedom to bear arms. The freedom of religion. We forget that each person has their own roots and that creates their own set of values and beliefs, they may not be consistent with yours, and that's OK.

There are many men and women who have died just to see that flag still fly. And there are many who continue to serve today. There are families who have lost their loved ones, and who stow a folded away in their remembrance. These people believe(d) in this country and were willing to risk their lives so that we could continue to not worry. So that we could live in peace.

#ThisFlag represents hope.

This flag has been able to unite our country for the past 239 years. It has given people from a variety of backgrounds, a sense of camaraderie. It has stood tall throughout some of the worst storms and battles and it continues to stand tall today. It is here to show future generations that when Americans stand together, they are strong.

So on this Independence Day, I encourage you to take a minute, and give that flag a real stare down. Think about what it has given to you. It's allowing you to drink that ice cold beer, to take a day off to spend with your family, and to stay out late and enjoy the night.

I challenge you all to share what this flag means to you. Write a little blurb; share a picture. Use #ThisFlag so everyone can be reminded of the great things it has done!

Happy Independence Day America!