Recent events in the NFL has sparked conversation about what is the acceptable way to act during the playing of our National Anthem. Notice how I refer to the song as ours.

The National Anthem symbolizes unity. No matter what police brutality is occurring in the country, or where our troops are working in the world to protect us, The Anthem unifies us. Having different opinions is a great freedom our nation grants us. What many are quick to forget is that the national anthem is a song that was inspired from the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812, granting us these freedoms.

The playing of The Star Spangled Banner before sporting events is a way to unite the fans no matter what they believe in or who they are rooting for.  During these two plus minutes there is complete disregard to anything accept the pride one has to be an American.

Kneeling during the National Anthem eliminates one of the only things that unites our country: American pride.

Sports players should stick to playing football. It is inappropriate to use your job as a platform to express your opinion.

There is a time and a place for everything. If you disagree with what is occurring within our country you have every right to express your views just like any other American citizen. But, it is more appropriate to do so at a political rally.

People in Puerto Rico are bathing in rivers, living with no power. Where is the passion to help the people in one of our nation’s republics? If people cared half as much about other pressing issues in our nation as they do to the way their football heroes are acting we would be solving major world problems. There is no more room in this world for tension or hate.

I realize that the protestor’s motives are not to offend Americans or those who fight for our country, but sadly that is the way it comes off. If they are upset with police brutality they should be outright stating that verses kneeling during the song of our nation. They should be participating in rally’s not taking away from the time we use to respect those who fight for our country.

I have nothing but respect for American soldiers and will always stand for the playing of our nation’s anthem as a small way to show my gratitude for the life I have in The United States.

Multiple players from the Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, New York Giants, Detroit Lions, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons did not stand for the anthem.

The NFL should take action towards the players’ use of the high platforms they are given from pop culture. There is a way to express yourself and this isn’t it.

People around the nation are boycotting football. Once again the nation is divided, but this time we have over paid athletes to thank.