When Freedom Enters the Room, You are not Required to Bow

    Political dissidents in many countries are punished for their beliefs. Is it so different in the U.S.? Yes, hammer thrower Gwen Berry will be allowed to represent the U.S. at the Olympics, despite turning her back on the flag after medaling in the Olympic Trials. The U.S. did stand behind her right to not participate in the flag ceremony.

   But, the number of calls for her to be kicked off the team leaves one to wonder. Now, Berry is not saying she doesn't like the U.S. "I never said I hated the country," she said. But, what if she were a socialist or communist? Should such political beliefs warrant someone being kicked off the team?

   Freedom of belief and expression is one thing, but you must be loyal to the country you represent, right?

   A free nation does not force its freedom. It does not force loyalty. It does not demand subservience. When freedom enters the room, you are not required to bow.

   Would there were no calls for Berry to be dismissed from the team. And, I hope, in America, such calls for anyone to be banned never reach the point that we heed them.