To the editor:

Bright white stars shout on a field of blue 
Rhode Island be but one of fifty 
Founded in 1636, the sixth colony of thirteen 
The first to denounce the King, declaring independence in 1776
The last to ratify the Constitution in 1790
Revolutionaries, forever honored by stripes of red and white

So respect it …

Or hate it 
Stomp on it 
Burn it
Tear it 
Do what you will
And disrespect as you may
This symbol of American freedom 
But know, it is alive and resilient 
Capable of eliciting tears of fire
Born in sacrifice and blood 
Unafraid 
Carried in battle 
Cloaked in death 
A guiding centerpiece of unity 
Linking generational pride 
We, the upstart nation in history books
With all states pledging allegiance  
An envied target on the global stage
Where dreamcatchers compete  
Why
Because we are free 
So go ahead, exercise your right 
Destroy OUR flag 
You will not be popular 
Nor inspirational
But will be protected 
By the same who defend and honor that flag 
It is your distinct privilege 
So beautifully rare
And found only here

James M. Meehan
79 Ferry Rd.