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My heart goes out to those in Charleston, South Carolina who lost their lives or loved ones. The Confederate flag needs to go. To many, it (justifiably) represents repression and hatred. Personally, one doesn’t care to wave flags of any type. If you are a global citizen (i.e., a true citizen of the world), then separative flags have very little meaning. Flags tend to reinforce the feeling of separation and indifference regarding “those at a distance.” Many think that their country or area is superior to “that” country or “other” place… or is superior to “those other people.” During war, so many feel that “God” is on their side… as if God takes sides in violent, separative confrontations! A truly perceptive mind realizes a profound truth that places it in a common bond (united) with all living creatures. Separative flags (of any kind), which promote boundaries and divisiveness (and they pretty much all do), have little significance to a mind that is truly in such a bond beyond demarcations.
https://secure.avaaz.org/en/the_confederate_flag_needs_to_go_loc/?bqntMib&v=60732
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[This baby snapping turtle was in the backyard, running about. The adults lay their eggs in the ground; when the babies finally hatch, they need to quickly get to water (or else they get eaten by raccoons, coyotes, foxes, or crows and such). After taking a few photos, I carefully tossed this little guy into the river that we live on.]
Baby Snapping Turtle (1). Photo by Thomas Peace c. 2015
Baby Snapping Turtle (2). Photo by Thomas Peace c. 2015
Tom's Nature-up-close Photography and Mindfulness Blog 
Thank you for this sentiment. It goes over well with the turtle and the rest of us true citizens of the world, who enjoy the diversity that makes the world a better place to live in. x
Thank you much!
Your words are very moving and true again, Thomas. If everybody would think like you we wouldn’t have so many wars. Why is a flag something so important that soldiers have to pledge allegiance to their flag? I once visited such a martial event. Very strange to me as a woman. Regards Mitza
Yes, Mitza!
It’s a rag on a stick.
I am surprised there was only one. It is a good think you found him.
On the flag issue I agree.
🙂