If standing is obligatory, it is also meaningless.

As a form of non-violent expression, taking a knee during the National Anthem epitomizes a fundamental principle in every fiber of the flag. Taking a knee honors, rather than dishonors, the Stars and Stripes.

The First Amendment reads: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

And the Supreme Court has interpreted ‘freedom of speech’ to include talking, writing, printing, broadcasting, using the Internet, and other forms of expression — including symbolic expression such as displaying, or burning, flags.

Refusing to stand for the flag pays homage to the flag. It honors those in uniform — and those not in uniform — who defend our First Amendment rights through their service to the country.

When we are made to believe that standing is obligatory, we have lost our freedom. We are doomed beneath the weight of tyranny.

Its simple, really: I choose to stand. Others choose to kneel. And when one or the other is obligatory, the action is rendered meaningless.