Before We Ever Play

Susan Saulny, a writer for The New York Times, reports that a small college in Goshen, Ind. wasn’t observing the national anthem before baseball games until the 23^rd of March, 2010. It seems that Goshen College houses some students that are Mennonites which is a conservative religious group who believe that The Star – Spangled Banner boasts of warfare and violence. As odd as it may sound, our treasured anthem has always seemed to be a pillar of all sporting events whether on a professional level or a little league game. But at Goshen College, they stayed away from playing any form of the song. Being that nearly half the students at Goshen don’t confess to be Mennonites. As a compromise to all, the administration department decided on that Tuesday to play an instrumental version of America’s National Anthem. Some still retained their views as to why they didn’t want to hear the song at all, but most stood and “cheered in the bleachers.” After the playing of the anthem, they prayed and played baseball. Saulny also mentions that “the Mennonite population has declined in recent years and the college may feel pressured to solicit others students outside the peace church.” (College Breaks a Tradition of Silence Before Games)

I have never viewed our national anthem as being violent or “glorifying war.” As long as I can remember, it has been a tradition before every game that I watched or even played. One would expect and look forward to it being played. After reading Saulny’s article, I can respect the beliefs of the Mennonites. I understand that they feel strongly about war and violence, and yes our nation is plagued with so much brutality. Yet still, I was overjoyed to hear that one culture could embrace another and something as patriotic as The Star-Spangled Banner could be the link between Christians and Mennonites. To envision students with “U.S.A.” painted in the loyal colors of red, white, and blue excites me as an American. I am glad to see a compromise that embraces an American tradition.

Saulny quotes Stan King, a graduate of the class of 1961, “I feel O.K. about it,” Mr. King said. “At first I didn’t particularly like it, but then I listened to the other side. I feel there was not much lost.” (College Breaks a Tradition of Silence Before Games). In hearing King’s statement, I believe that when we are opposed to something, hearing the other side of the argument shows great character. This shows foundation of true Americans. Baseball has always an American pastime were fathers have taken their sons and families have gathered in bleachers to watch this game that is played on a diamond. Maybe that is why it is treasured in the hearts of young boys alike. By adding Francis Scott Key’s ballad brings a warm feeling in the hearts of those who are proud to say we are Americans. Even though there was some who protested the instrumental version of the anthem, I applaud the way they held their peace and didn’t disrupt the game. Even though there may be another disagreement between students at Goshen College, this was truly an accomplishment that the entire town of Goshen can be proud of.

Saulny, Susan. “College Breaks a Tradition of Silence Before Games.” The New York Times. 24 Mar. 2010. Web. 29 Mar. 2010

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/25/us/25goshen.html