[MR] movement to change the anthem

[Michael Ruttle]

<< there is, or has been, some talk about changing our national anthem to
god bless america...i was wondering what thoughts were out there on this...i
have sung the anthem on many occassions at professional sporting events, and
it is not an easy song for the most experienced bard...however, i wonder if
it is appropriate to change horses midstream, so to speak...i understand
that this country was founded "under god", and i have great faith in some
higher power, but our country was also founded as a haven for religious
freedom, speech, etc...will this be a step in the direction of the loss of
some freedoms? just a thought--me playing devil's advocate and all, since i
am a reporter...isabella>>

<Actually, I've always figured that "America, the Beautiful" would be a much
better anthem, because it includes all the states, instead of just Maryland.
It's also a *lot* easier to sing...Craig >

I've actually song the national anthem to my son every night that I've put
him to bed since the day he was born. It is not easy to sing but in my view,
when done well, is far more _powerful_ an expression of our spirit and
indefatigable approach to life than either "God Bless America" or "American,
the Beautiful." That being said, I have no problem with references to "God"
in song. Not getting into a religious debate, I've always felt it was
freedom "of" religion, not freedom "from" religion.

Cheers

Colin G