The solution to this problem is easy. Ditch the national anthem before sporting events. It's a dumb, outmoded practice that didn't emerge until after World War II, and it's long outlived its usefulness anyway. It has ceased to be an exercise in patriotism, having degenerated into an outlet for drunken, besotted, jingoistic jackals to beat their chests, howl at the moon, and intimidate anyone who happens not to be as caught up in the alcohol-fueled esprit de corps as they are. The practice makes me feel so uncomfortable, especially when the leagues trot service members out onto the field, that I've taken to waiting out in the concourse until after the song is over before taking my seat.

I can see playing the national anthem at the season opener, perhaps even at the championship game. But before every single game? That's ridiculous. Sporting events shouldn't be platforms for military recruiting. Save the displays of nationalistic ardor for events whose entire purpose is to stoke the flames of nationalism, like the Olympics and the World Cup, which only come around once every four years. (Thank God.) Scrap the playing of the national anthem, and no one gets to make a political statement by sitting and no one gets to take offense at the guy who fails to take off his hat or put his hand over his heart. It's a win-win situation for everyone.

Originally Posted by: Nonstopdrivel