ANOTHER ANGLE: LEONARD MCCREARY

Referencing Sina’s question above, I see a man who is a great American capitalist. I see a man wrapped in our flag because he finds it advantageous.

An average citizen might pass this man on the street, barefoot sans flag with his tattered clothes, unkempt appearance, and dispirited demeanor, and think nothing of yet another vagrant with whom they cannot relate.  Perhaps if the passerby feels anything, it's contempt. 

But a patriotic American, upon seeing the man enveloped in Old Glory, no matter how downtrodden, cannot help but relate to the man as a fellow-American! In the spirit of community and compassion, perhaps the passerby gives him a little something of value, be it food or money, or the simple dignity of an acknowledging nod or uplifting word.  Likewise, a great patriot would not think twice of disturbing a weary fellow-patriot's peaceful sleep?

Community, and unity, are our strengths. That which we hold in common bonds us. This man is not wrapping himself in anything so deep as a belief in the supreme law that is our Constitution or our inalienable rights it protects, rather, he has wrapped himself in a bit of community; a bit of hope. No matter how little this man has at the present instant, he shares something meaningful with all of us who enjoy plenty. I see a man robed in a flag – the greatest flag on earth – that lets him stand a little taller and sleep a little sounder. I see a man who is down, but not out.