Pledge doesn't limit, but fulfills, our citizenship

To the editor:

The assertion that being forced to recite the phrase "under God" violates one's rights is without merit. The Pledge of Allegiance is not a prerequisite for an American citizen receiving the rights as guaranteed by our Constitution. Any American can enjoy the full benefit of individual rights without ever having to say the pledge even once, if he so chooses. I believe the pledge is actually a love poem citizens can freely express to their flag, gratefully acknowledging the privilege it is to live in this country.

The objection to the phrase "under God" should be examined closely. For those of us who wish to appreciate our God and his place in our nation's existence, I would respectfully ask the objectors to allow us to continue this public expression.

One of our founding concepts is the principle of no federally established religion. I fully agree with that wise decision. But people from the founding fathers to today's citizens have practiced the right of religious expression, another Constitutionally-guaranteed right. In saying "one nation under God" in our pledge, those of us with religious conviction can continue to honor our God and his rightful place in our country's continued successful existence.

The Pledge of Allegiance has meaning to every American citizen -- perhaps a different meaning to each citizen. I hope it will continue to be passed on to each citizen not as a requirement or limitation of citizenship, but as a personal expression of our gratitude for this great country.

STEVE POPP

Jackson, Mo.