I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands — one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands — one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

How many of us memorized these words as part of our morning classroom ritual in elementary school? Probably most folks gathered here. Some of us still recite this pledge within a civic group, or the volunteer fire department, or some other public gathering. On occasion, a few even stop to reflect upon what we are actually promising when we speak these words. Mostly, however, they are just part of our public life — a civic tie that binds.

At le…