DEAR EDITOR:
In response to Thomas E. Hamrick II's letter on June 3, I have the following comment.
I attended the graduation ceremony at Lakeview High School on June 3, 2012. Again no Pledge of Allegiance or National Anthem, however, the valedictorian, Rachel Rubadiri, was courageous enough to give a speech that touched many in the audience.
The government may take prayer or anything associated with religion out of our schools, but they can't remove our patriotism or belief in God from our hearts.
Rachel spoke of how she didn't think her life was of any value until she let Jesus Christ enter. She reminded us that Jesus died on the cross for us and the decisions we make affect our lives.
I just want to reiterate that Rachel showed courage beyond her years and the government can't take away what we feel in our hearts.
I find it interesting that the National Anthem is still played at a high school football game, but not at a high school graduation. Is this the next step our government will take to deprive us of our freedom?
Karen Miller
Cortland