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In the midst of Pelham City Cemetery, you may spot an unlikely but fitting site in the midst of the graves. Built by a local Eagle Scout, a flag retirement pit serves as the final resting place of the emblem of our great nation and the city plans to make use of this site for a Flag Retirement Ceremony on June 14—National Flag Day. During a time in our country that seems more politically divided than ever, the flag still stands as an emblem representing the ideal standard—unity.

A famous political cartoon from the 1700s depicts a serpent cut into pieces with the phrase “Join, or Die” and is a sentiment that is still true today. In order to free themselves from the tyranny of the British Empire, the colonies united together to earn the freedoms we enjoy today. Likewise, if we wish to see the continued success and peace we’ve experienced these nearly 250 years, we should do the same.

There is a time and a season to everything under the sun—yes that includes arguing with each other—but let’s remember that we are all fellow kinsmen in the ultimate sense. We may believe in different things but all of us want to live a comfortable and peaceful life.

The next time someone leads the Pledge of Allegiance or if you happen to spot the American Flag proudly displayed at someone’s house, perhaps we will all remember the true meaning behind the Stars and Stripes and see beyond superficial patriotism and into the heart of what makes the United States of America special.