Pete Moye’
Opinion Button

A part of the national anthem of the United States reads, “The land of the free and the home of the brave.” The members of our armed forces fight for our right to remain free on a moment-by-moment basis.

Fact is, we don’t do anything in return for that freedom.

We as Americans need to learn how to sacrifice instead of complaining about the inconveniences that come along with the continual fight for our freedom.

Our military fights constantly for freedoms and luxuries that many of us take advantage of, but yet are luxuries that are available to us without our needing to do anything in return.

First amendment rights like freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and the right to peacefully assemble.

For example, our role in the fight on terror is to be slightly inconvenienced in our nation’s airports to ensure our safety.

However, people complain about the things that they are asked to do for the sake of our nation’s safety.

It just doesn’t make sense. Everything is not a government conspiracy; everything is not a battle of right and wrong.

That is exactly what the problem is with us as a country. We only come together in the face of tragedy then end up more divided than ever.

No one is asking, nor expecting anyone to give up anything drastic for the sake of freedom. However, sacrifice for the sake of it.

No one is expecting you to accept an imposition of military rule; martial law type circumstance.

And furthermore, as Americans, we should be willing to do whatever it takes to continue the standard of peace, rights, and freedom that we experience on a daily basis.

“America, love it or leave it.” Accept the good with the bad.

We don’t live in a country that forces people to stay here. If you don’t like the way that things are going, feel free to relocate to another country that fits your desires.

If you don’t do anything to impact change, you have no right to complain.