I am a senior. I’ve lived a lot, loved a lot, lost a lot, and learned a lot. Because I’ve lived a lot, I’ve made mistakes, even though I have meant well. Because I’ve loved, I’ve learned that correcting mistakes is better – and easier – than continuing to dig in deeper or trying to cover them up. Because I’ve lost a lot, I have learned to value what really matters. I’ve learned that the democratic process of communication and consensus is better than even the most enlightened dictator. I am an American, lucky to be born in a nation that guarantees me a form of government that respects its people and acts for their welfare. And even though my country and its people have made many mistakes, we have the courage to admit it, to learn from those mistakes and to make amends. This is a process of growth and evolution. It’s my right and responsibility to continue to move toward the ideals of my country and to leave something more for those who come after me.

That’s why I stand for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag – a symbol for one people from many places and many races, indivisible by their choice to create a government of, by, and for the people, offering liberty and justice for all – under the flag that flies over our soaring mountains and shining seas.

Keep flying. Keep shining. I’ll be on your side forevermore. I stand for the pledge.

Katherine Morningstar Simon

San Juan Island