We revolted against the British to gain our independence, fought for acceptance in diversity, helped out in the first great world war, and liberated (with a little help from some of our allies) half of Europe during World War II. There are other accomplishments Americans can be proud of, but America also has its flaws just like any other country.

Remember when America was all about freedom and peace? I sure don’t, considering we’re ranked 101st in peace, 2nd in ignorance, 23rd in gender equality, 46th in freedom of the press, 24th in literacy, and and 14th for education, according to the website “Ranking America.” But hey, we are ranked number one in incarceration, women’s Olympic figure skating medals, richest residents, and wine consumption.

We are no longer number one in the world like we used to be. The rest of the world doesn’t have the same confidence in America like they did 70 years ago. But this isn’t something Americans should be worried about considering the rising and fall of countries throughout history.

For now, we should focus on what we can do to improve our rankings to make this country better again. If we do this, the flag doesn't represent a country full of entitled people who don’t understand the meaning of work. If we do this, our flag will represent greatness, confidence, and peace.

With hard work, dedication, commitment, and the will to change, we can make this country what it once was--a striving, powerful, inspirational country people flock to for a new start. A better start.  Where people saw our flag as a symbol for unity and peace.

Our flag doesn’t represent what America once used to. It doesn’t symbolize a country full of hard workers and go-getters. As time grows on, though, America will strive to  be exceptionally successful. America will be great once again. 

My dream is for the flag to represent and remind people that we stand for acceptance in diversity, peace, and individualism.