As I take a few minutes to reflect on another anniversary of September 11, 2001 I am troubled by the short memories Americans seem to have.  I can recall the outpouring of national pride that we as a country showed ourselves and the world after 9/11.  Every street was adorned with American Flags, high atop flag poles or on a wooden stick stuck into the front lawn.  My street, I think like most in America, was a sea of red, white, and blue flags waving our pride in the wind.  The way the country pulled together reminded me of the sense of National Pride that my grandparents generation must have felt as it embarked to fight a world war.  Now it seems as if no one remembers what happened a few short years ago.  I know most certainly remember, they are just to busy to do anything about their memories.  This anniversary seems like a day that the country should remind itself not only that we are vulnerable to attacks on our way of life but also to celebrate the country we are fortunate enough to live in.  Everytime I look at "Old Glory" emotions deep within bubble to the surface reminding me of all the men and women who have died to keep their generation and the next ones free.  I always find it simply amazing when Americans burn their own flag, I guess exercising their Constitutional Rights, to make a dramatic point at one protest or another.  I have to wonder if they realize how they insult the memories of all who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country, and the very flag, they insist on burning.  It seems to me that the American Flag represents different things to different people and though individuals might not agree with the politics of the day they should still respect the flag enough to stand when its being raised or lowered, stand when The Star Spangled Banner is playing, make sure it never touches the ground, take the time to fold it properly, and above all else remember those who died for it.  On September 11, 2008 I just don't see what I saw in the days and weeks following September 11, 2001, the pride and togetherness.  It saddens me deeply.