On Friday, Sept. 11, display an American flag outside your home, apartment, office and store on this eighth anniversary of one of our country’s worst tragedies. This is to honor those who lost their lives on 9/11, their families, friends and loved ones who continue to endure the pain, and those who today are fighting at home and abroad to preserve our cherished freedoms.

For some time following 9/11 our country was bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the incredible losses and stood shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism. Sadly, many of those flags have all but disappeared. Our patriotism pulled us through some tough times and it shouldn’t take another attack to galvanize us in solidarity. Our American flag is the symbol of our country’s liberty and respect for the individual. Together we can prevail over terrorism of all kinds.

Action plan:

1). Take a moment to think back to how you felt on 9/11 and let those sentiments guide you.

2. Fly an American flag of any size on 9/11. It would be good if more Americans flew the flag year-round, but if you don’t, then consider making it a priority on this Sept. 11.

Thank you for your participation. God bless you and God bless America!

Rufus Rose

Clinton